Research: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

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Authored by Bent, S., Bertoglio K., and Hendren RL in J Autism Dev Disorder, Volume 39, Issue 8, p. 1145-1154, (2009).

Article summary (posted Apr 6, 2010):

There is currently not enough scientific evidence to determine if omega-3 fatty acids are safe and effective as a treatment for autism.

Omega-3 fatty acids are often used as a treatment for autism. This article reviews all published studies on the treatment effects of omega-3 fatty acids in children with autism. While there are no concrete studies that show that omega-3 fatty acids help with autism, the supplement appears to be safe. The studies that have been done so far raise hope that omega -3 fatty acids may help with autism and these studies should be followed with more research. The authors suggest that patients discuss the use of omega-3 fatty acids with their doctors before starting to use them.

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).
autism, evidence-based medicine (EBM), omega-3, supplements, systematic review, treatment
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