Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with difficulties in learning, behaviour and psychosocial adjustment that persist into adulthood. Decreased omega-3 fatty acids and increased inflammation or oxidative stress may contribute to neuro-developmental and psychiatric disorders such as ADHD. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of n-3 supplementation on hyperactivity, oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators in children with ADHD.
Methods: In this double blind study, 103 children (6-12 years) with ADHD receiving maintenance therapy were assigned randomly into two groups. The n-3 group received n-3 fatty acids (635 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 195 mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)), and the placebo group received olive oil capsules which were visually similar to the n-3 capsules. The duration of supplementation was 8 weeks. Plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and the activity of glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined before and after the intervention. Likewise the Conners' Abbreviated Questionnaires (ASQ-P) was applied.
Results: After 8-week intervention, a significant reduction was observed in the levels of CRP ( P < 0.05, 95% CI = 0.72-2.02) and IL-6 (P < 0.001, 95% CI = 1.93-24.33) in the n-3 group. There was also a significant increase in activity of SOD and GR (P < 0.001). A significant improvement was seen in the ASQ-P scores in the n-3 group (P < 005).
Conclusion: Eight weeks of EPA and DHA supplementation decreased plasma inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress in the children with ADHD. These results suggest that n-3 fatty acid supplementation may offer a safe and efficacious treatment for children with ADHD.