works and why.
Studies have shown that children with ADD and ADHD
(Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) have
symptoms which are similar to that of people who are
deficient with essential fatty acids.
Information published in the American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition says that children "with lower compositions of
total omega 3 fatty acids had significantly more behavioral
problems, temper tantrums, and learning, health, and sleep
problems than did those with high proportions of omega 3
fatty acids." [Vol. 71, No. 1, 327S-330S]
Parents will surely like this natural form of treatment for
ADD kids, and the moment they know that they have several
choices; it makes it a lot easier for them to make a decision.
It gives them the chance to try the natural approach first.
Prescription drugs may be used, but we also need to
consider the serious side effects that can result when
these drugs are taken. Fish oil on the other hand, has no
bad side effects but only endless health benefits from childhood
through old age.
The promotion of this natural treatment for children with
ADD and ADHD is now endorsed by scientists. For example,
in a study that was published in Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes
and Essential Fatty Acids, the authors particularly stated that
treating ADD and ADHD with omega 3 fatty acids is "safe
compared to existing pharmacological interventions"
[Vol. 63, No.1-2, pp. 79-87]
It has become more exciting, as one scientist took time to
review all available studies on omega 3s, and posted a
statement in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry [Vol.
48:195-203], "that higher dosages of omega-3 fatty acids (2
to 4g daily) may ameliorate the symptoms of several
psychiatric conditions" ? that includes ADD and ADHD.
It is really a brave move to make such a statement, coming
from a scientist. We do not often see scientists becoming
so excited that they would go to the point of using the word
"ameliorate" in describing natural nutrients found in food.
"Ameliorate" refers to making a person feel better or
improve your health (similar to "cure") and would normally
be used for prescription drugs.
It is good to know that scientific studies back up the
need to find ADD fish oil treatment for your kids. And
certainly omega 3 fish oil is a very simple solution. By
simply adding more oily fish to your family's daily diet
plan can jump start things for you.
But this should not mean fish sticks and fish patties.
They are of course made of white meat fish, and do not
contain that much omega 3s. Also remember that omega 3s
are not produced by the body and must come from the diet.
What you need to provide is salmon, tuna, sardines,
mackerel or herring. The more you serve it, the better.
It can be a challenge to get 2 to 4 grams of fish oil daily
just by eating those fishes.
There is an easier alternative, and that is by
supplementing only the finest quality fish oil capsules to
your family's diet. If you prefer this natural approach over
traditional medicines, you'll need to look for a fish oil product
that is a 100% pure and free of toxins, a stable potency and
contains all the eight members of the omega 3 family.
