Omega-3 fatty acidsDoes omega-3 help children with ADHD?
Updated 9 Nov 2026
Short answer
Probably not for the main symptoms. A 2023 Cochrane review of 37 trials with more than 2,374 children and teenagers found high-certainty evidence that omega-3 and omega-6 supplements did not change parent-rated ADHD symptoms, inattention or hyperactivity.[1] Supplements were given for 2 weeks to 6 months.[1]
A smaller analysis of 3 trials, with low certainty, found that more children improved with the supplements than with placebo.[1] Side effects did not differ from placebo.[1]
Sources (1)
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Gillies D, Leach MJ, Perez Algorta G Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2023. PMID 37058600
More about omega-3 fatty acids
What are omega-3 fatty acids?What is the difference between ALA, EPA and DHA?What are omega-3 fatty acids used for?Which foods are high in omega-3?Are omega-3 supplements safe?Does plant omega-3 (ALA) protect the heart?For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.