Fish oil therapy may help learning and behavior in some children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism.

This review describes the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the course and outcome of problems with the brain. The authors note that studies have been mixed as to whether or not children with autism have low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. There have been only a few studies that have looked at the use of omega-3 fatty acids as treatment for autism and these studies have been small and lasted only a short amount of time. Omega-3 fatty acids have a good safety profile, but they may cause nausea, nose bleeds, and a fishy burp. While doses of 3 grams of fish oil per day are considered safe for adults, parents should talk with their child’s doctor about the best dose for a child.