Recent research supports the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation to curb disruptive, even abusive behavior in children. The study was actually conducted at UMass Lowell’s School of Criminology and Justice Studies, with an intention of finding interventions that could help change disruptive childhood behavior before it turns into criminal behavior.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help improve brain function in both children and adults, and are used commonly for ADHD symptoms, as well as many other conditions. One of the primary mechanisms by which an increase in dietary omega-3s are thought to work is by lowering inflammation.
Children with ADHD tend to have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids
It has been shown that children with ADHD tend to have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids than other children. And previous studies have shown improvement with omega-3 supplementation. However, there are other associations found in children with ADHD including lower mineral levels, amino acid levels, an increased total calorie need, as well as food allergies, chemical sensitivities, and of course family trauma.
ADHD is a host of behavioral and psychological symptoms
ADHD is a host of behavioral and psychological symptoms that occur in children (and adults) for a host of reasons. Each case is slightly different, and where there may be some general consistency, it is important to look at the individual needs of these children on a case-by-case basis. For this reason, it may be necessary to seek the guidance of a trained naturopath, psychologist and nutritionist, or all three.
Children with ADHD need help processing through emotional trauma or learning disabilities
In addition to supplemental nutrition, oftentimes children with ADHD need help processing through emotional trauma or learning disabilities. Elevated intelligence and subsequent boredom at school may also be an obstacle that is leading to hyperactivity. So, omega-3 fatty acids may be a component to treating a child with ADHD, however, there are likely numerous other factors that need to be taken into consideration.
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Razi Berry is the founder and publisher of the journal, Naturopathic Doctor News & Review, that has been in print since 2005 and the premier consumer-faced website of naturopathic medicine, NaturalPath. She is the host of The Natural Cancer Prevention Summit and The Heart Revolution-Heal, Empower and Follow Your Heart, and the popular 10 week Sugar Free Summer program. From a near death experience as a young girl that healed her failing heart, to later overcoming infertility and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia through naturopathic medicine, Razi has lived the mind/body healing paradigm. Her projects uniquely capture the tradition and philosophy of naturopathy: The healing power of nature, the vital life force in every living thing and the undeniable role that science and mind/body medicine have in creating health and overcoming dis-ease. Follow Razi on Facebook at Razi Berry and join us at Love is Medicine to explore the convergence of love and health.
