Research: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Neuropsychiatric Disorders.

Authored by Young, G., and Conquer J. in Reprod Nutr Dev., Volume 45, Issue 1, p. 1-28, (2005).

Article summary (posted Nov 14, 2006):

This article gives an overview of the involvement of omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) in brain functions, and describes the evidence suggesting that supplementation with omega-3 EFAs improves disorders of the brain and behavior.

The authors begin by describing the biochemistry of EFAs, listing the foods that are rich in omega-3 EFAs (including flaxseed and fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna), and outlining how omega-3 EFAs help the body function. They then detail the evidence showing that individuals with several disorders (ADHD, Alzheimerâ??s disease, schizophrenia, depression, and autism), tend to have lower levels of omega-3 in the blood. The research they review suggests that many of these disorders can be improved by supplementation with omega-3 EFAs. They do not specifically discuss any research on omega-3 supplementation of children with autism.

Links:

You can access the original abstract and the complete paper is sometimes available for free via Google Scholar (look for entries that say "PDF" or "HTML" on the right side of the page).
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, depression, essential fatty acids (EFA), evidence-based medicine (EBM), omega-3, review article, schizophrenia, supplements
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