Fish Oil Helps Hyperactivity

Professor Robert Winston has been giving daily doses of fish oil supplements containing Omega 3 fatty acids to two children, each with different behavioural problems.

Three months later, the changes have been significant. One boy's aggressive behaviour almost vanished and the other, once withdrawn and uncommunicative, has become popular and outgoing.

The nutritional benefits of fish have always been known. During World War II, children were given cod liver oil to supplement their meagre diet.

More recent research has highlighted the specific benefits to the brain of the fatty acids in fish, particularly in children with behavioural or learning difficulties.

"Fish and seafood are the only ready-made sources of the essential Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA which we need for our brains," explains Dr Alex Richardson, a neuroscientist based at Oxford University.

"If we don't get them from fish, we have to build them from other, simpler forms of the fatty acids found in green leafy vegetables and some nuts and seeds.

"However, in some cases of dyslexia, dyspraxia, autism and ADHD, and even depression, the brain needs more fatty acids than average, which are not being provided in the normal diet."

Fish oil improved concentration

During trials, Dr Richardson found children with dyslexia and ADHD tendencies experienced improved concentration, decreased anxiety and a reduction in disruptive behaviour, after three months of fish oils.

She admits: "We don't know the exact mechanisms of why fish oils help the brain, but they do.

"Parents should choose a fish oil that is high in EPA, rather than high in DHA.

"MorEPA, in particular, is cheaper than some other options and has the highest concentration of EPA available."

Fish oil supplements should not be confused with cod liver oil supplements which, when taken at the high doses needed to help with dyslexia and ADHD, may actually cause an overdose of Vitamin A in the body.

It is also more likely that the liver of the fish will contain more pollutants and toxins than the oils from the body of the fish.

For any parents wondering if their children have a deficiency of fatty acids, tell-tale signs are dry and lacklustre skin and hair, dry bumpy skin at the top of the arms and weak, brittle nails.

Dr Richardson adds: "A lot more research needs to be done, but I hope that enough clinical trials have taken place for doctors to be able to prescribe Omega 3.

"In the meantime, I don't want people to think it is a miracle cure. For most children, a healthy diet rich in fish and leafy vegetables will provide all the nutrients they need."

Source: www.dailymail.co.uk, Marianne Power