Cognitive effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms: a randomised controlled trial.

Full Abstract

This study investigated effects of PUFA and micronutrient supplementation on cognition in children with ADHD symptoms. In a randomised controlled trial, 7-12-year-old children with symptoms 2 S.D. on Conners' ADHD Index were given PUFA, PUFA+multivitamins/minerals (MVM), or placebo for 15 weeks, and then all children were given PUFA+MVM for an additional 15 weeks. After 15 weeks there were improvements in a test of the ability to switch and control attention (Creature Counting) in the PUFA groups compared to placebo (N=129, p=0.002). This improvement was also observed in the placebo group after taking PUFA from weeks 16 to 30 (N=104). There were no significant improvements in other cognitive measures, or with additional micronutrient supplementation. However, improvements in cognitive performance mediated previous parent-reported improvements in inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity [N. Sinn, J. Bryan, Effect of supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids and micronutrients on ADHD-related problems with attention and behaviour, J. Dev. Behav. Pediatr. 28 (2) (2007) 82-91], suggestive of a common neurological mechanism for these symptoms.

Author information

Author/s: Sinn, N (N); Bryan, J (J); Wilson, C (C);

Affiliation: Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia. natalie.sinn(-atsign-)unisa.edu.au

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and essential fatty acids (Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids), published in Scotland. (Language: eng)

Reference: -2008 Apr-May; vol 78 (issue 4-5) : pp 311-26

Dates: Created 2008/06/16; Completed 2008/10/14;

PMID: 18514501, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

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