Insights & Discussion
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation during the prenatal and perinatal period could have a protective effect on neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, ASD, and MDD in youth.
The research implemented supplementation of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids also known as Omega-3 PUFAs, in different quantities and durations to youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder (MDD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This was carried out based on suggested dosage and duration from various randomized controlled trials and systemic literature reviews. It was observed that omega-3 PUFAs were essential nutrients not just for physical health but also for mental health, more so during the prenatal and perinatal stages of development.
The results demonstrated that clinical symptoms improved in youth with ADHD, MDD and ASD after they were supplemented with Omega-3 PUFAs, especially in cases where there was high inflammation or low baseline Omega-3 index present. The research showed very promising evidence that Omega-3 PUFAs had positive effects on lethargy and hyperactivity symptoms in ASD. There was also an inclination that Omega-3 PUFAs levels and inflammation could be potential markers for treatment response in ADHD and MDD.
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Walnut consumption may improve attention, fluid intelligence, and reduce ADHD symptoms in adolescents who consistently incorporated them into their diet.
2023 EClinicalMedicine Effect of walnut consumption on neuropsychological development in healthy adolescents: a multi-school randomised controlled trial Pinar-Martí A, Gignac F, Fernández-Barrés S, Romaguera D, Sala-Vila A, Lázaro I, et al.
Randomised Controlled Trial ADHD Adolescents Walnut
For their methods, the investigators utilized a 6-month randomised controlled nutrition intervention across multiple schools, enrolling 771 healthy teenagers. These participants, aged between 11-16 years, were split into two groups - one that was given a daily amount of 30 grams of raw walnut kernels to incorporate into their diet and a control group. Neuropsychological aspects like working memory, attention, fluid intelligence, and executive function were assessed, along with behavioral aspects such as socio-emotional and ADHD symptoms. Alpha-linolenic acid status was determined at the start and end of the trial as a measure of compliance.
In regard to the results, general improvements in sustained attention, fluid intelligence, and a reduction in ADHD symptoms were recorded in participants who were more compliant in integrating walnuts into their diet. However, there was no significant improvement observed in the neuropsychological function of healthy adolescents overall.