| Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common developmental disorder of childhood. Once children are diagnosed with ADHD, their parents face the daunting task of choosing from a plethora of treatment options for their child---such as medication, behavior management, biofeedback, and dietary restrictions, to name a few. Parents are often reluctant to begin a trial of the stimulant or non-stimulant medications due to side effects, stigma, and unknown impact on long-term health. Thus parents may choose to explore alternative or natural remedies to treat their child who has been diagnosed with ADHD, even though these remedies often have a stigma of their own. One treatment option includes a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, or omega-3 supplements. Generally speaking, there is increasing evidence suggesting omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in overall health and more specifically provide neuro-protective qualities in brain functioning.;The purpose of this project is to evaluate the existing evidence of the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids as a viable treatment for children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. Results of the controlled study at Yale University indicate dietary supplementation with fish oil showed a small but statistically significant reduction in ADHD symptoms.;The conclusion is that more research needs to occur regarding the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on children with ADHD. Therefore, a research proposal has been recommended in order to determine the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of ADHD. |
