Omega 3 and Nutritional Supplements for ADD / ADHD
Many scientific studies have shown that nutritional deficiencies contribute to ADD/ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Researchers suggest that deficiencies of certain nutrients, including iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, omega 3 fatty cids are associated with ADHD-like symptoms, thus correcting the deficiency might help improve symptoms.
Since many children and adults don’t eat balanced diets, health experts believe that diet and nutritional supplements may play a role in relieving ADHD symptoms.
Researchers in Oxford University, England evaluated the effects of fatty acid supplementation in children with significant reading and writing disabilities. they found that, the children who receiving essential fatty acids significantly improved the ADHD symptoms.
Fatty acids are used to make brain and nerve tissue in the body and are crucial for mental function and brain development. Omega 3 and Omega 6 are two fatty acids that cannot be produced by our body, therefore must be received through diet and supplementation. The best ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 in our body should be 1:1. But the typical Western diet is high in Omega 6 and highly deficient in Omega 3. Health specialists believe many children ADHD problems are associated with Omega 3 deficiencies.
Adding multi-vitamins may also help improve symptoms of ADD / ADHD. Visit your doctor, and see which vitamins and minerals might be needed for ADHD. Researches have shown that vitamin supplements increase children’s intelligence and decrease aggressiveness.
Other nutritional deficiencies may also cause ADHD. Adding Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Sulfur, Iron, and amino acids may be beneficial to ADD / ADHD.
