woman with many omega 3 capsules in hand

Can Fish Oil Aid in Alleviating ADHD Symptoms?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a highly-prevalent childhood condition that affects the neurological development of the brain during the early years. This disorder causes focus issues in the child, leading to erratic and impulsive actions accompanied by hyperactivity. These problems often last until adulthood and may interfere with the day-to-day routine.

ADHD is a common mental health disorder. According to Healthline, it’s not only a children’s disorder but affects about 4% of US adults. Similarly, survey reports by the CDC show that by 2024, over 600,000 children, particularly males between the ages of 2 to 17 years, had been diagnosed with ADHD. They have also discovered that most children diagnosed with ADHD usually have another underlying mental health condition such as Tourette’s, depression, or autism.

MayoClinic reports that numerous signs of ADHD may appear as you continue to grow. In children and adults, the most common tell-tale symptoms of ADHD are inattentiveness and restlessness, but diagnosis and on-time treatment at a later age can be somewhat tricky. While Western medicines are crucial, you may also want to try a few popular home remedies to ease ADHD symptoms.

Fish oil and ADHD

young boy with ADHD interacting with an adult

Various vitamins and supplements play an integral part in relieving the symptoms of ADHD, per WebMD. Fish oil is one of the most popular supplements usually recommended to ADHD patients for dealing with difficult symptoms. Fish oil capsules are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which, according to experiences from parents, have proven effective against hyperactivity in children (via ADDitude). Although there’s limited research available, there have been a few pieces of evidence where taking fish supplements has offered a therapeutic impact on both adults and children.

See Also:  Signs of High-Functioning Depression: How to Tell If You Have It

For instance, a 2024 study published in Dietary Lipids in Health and Disease focused on the benefits of using omega-3 supplementation. They analyzed over 16 different studies where 1100+ children were either given an omega-3 capsule or a placebo pill. The results were quite impressive, showing remarkable improvement in memory retention, attention, overactivity, focus, and learning or reading abilities. As a result, the researchers are convinced that fish oil supplementation rich in omega-3 fatty acids can prove useful against debilitating ADHD symptoms alongside the modern medication.

Lesa O'Leary
Lesa O'Leary

Lesa is a dynamic member of OzHelp’s Service Delivery Team as the Service Delivery Team Leader and Nurse. She has been with OzHelp for five years and believes in leading by example. Lesa has experience in the not-for-profit sector, as well as many roles throughout different industries and sectors, including as a contractor to the Department of Defence. She has expertise in delivering OzHelp’s health and wellbeing programs and engaging with clients in a relaxed and comfortable manner that aligns with the organisation’s vision and objectives.

Lesa has a Certificate 4 in Nursing from Wodonga Tafe, Certificate 4 in Mental Health from Open Colleges, and is currently undertaking a Certificate 4 in Training and Assessment from Tafe NSW. For the past few months Lesa has been an Education and Memberships committee member of the ACT Branch of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).