Aids in Improving Hyperactivity and Attention
Many neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD in children involve inattention and hyperactivity. Given that omega-3 makes up a considerable proportion of the brain, ensuring that one gets enough of it could help prevent these types of conditions early in life. In addition, children who have ADHD with lower fatty acid levels are believed to have much more behavioral issues than those who don’t. And some studies suggest omega-3 supplementation improves reading ability and behavior.
Research has also shown fish oil to affect children on the spectrum or who are autistic positively. Those who regularly took supplements have shown reduced hyperactivity in their behavior. However, many of the studies conducted in this area are either poorly controlled or minor, so more research involving more extensive and better-controlled trials is required to determine how effective fish oil can be as a treatment for those with autism.
In addition, while safe in healthy doses, the excessive intake of fish oil or supplements may result in adverse reactions, especially in children. They may contain potentially dangerous toxins like mercury that may aggravate existing mental conditions, increase liver disease risks, cause arrhythmia, and make diseases like diabetes harder to manage.
