For children with ADHD, which Omegor is recommended?

Good morning everyone. My son, following perinatal hypoxia, has experienced motor and cognitive developmental delays, fortunately not severe. He is currently 5 years old, and I notice fatigue and attention difficulties at school and therapy that he hadn’t shown before. I have read about the positive effects of omega-3 supplements on children with ADHD. Which Omegor supplement would be most suitable? Could I have him take it now, or is it “too late”? Should supplementation have started earlier? Could there be side effects? How soon might I see initial results? Thank you very much for the clarifications you can provide. Best regards.

Dear Maria, 

I recommend discussing with your child’s pediatrician the use of VitaDHA 1000, a dietary supplement in capsules. It is a rich, concentrated formula of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA Plus) derived from fish oil purified and deodorized by multiple molecular distillation. The DHA Plus in VitaDHA 1000 is highly bioavailable because it is in natural triglyceride form, which is easily absorbed by the body. 

Our brain is composed of more than 60% fat, and most of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids present in our body are located in the brain, particularly DHA, the main component of nervous system cell membranes. Many scientific studies highlight how a DHA deficiency in children can be associated with decreased attention, learning difficulties, and hyperactivity, behaviors typical in ADHD. At this link you can read a Spanish study on children aged 6 to 18 with ADHD using high-DHA supplements. 

Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids help maintain adequate dopamine levels. When levels of this neurotransmitter drop, attention disorders, reduced ability to concentrate on immediate tasks, and movement disorders are more likely to occur. 

I recommend 2-3 capsules per day of VitaDHA 1000 before a main meal. If your son has difficulty swallowing capsules, I suggest a liquid alternative with the same content characteristics: VitaDHA liquid. VitaDHA liquid contains an even purer and more natural fish oil produced through a refining process that preserves the natural form of the oil as much as possible, keeps it stable longer, and gives it a neutral taste. Additionally, the formula is enhanced with lemon flavor. I recommend one sachet every other day of VitaDHA liquid before a main meal, or it can be added to cold foods such as yogurt or spreadable cheese. 

Generally, supplementation should be continued for at least 2-3 months and can be prolonged without side effects, particularly throughout the school period. I confirm that it is not too late to start supplementation; initial physiological effects may be seen after 1-2 months of regular use. Moreover, it is important that the doctor monitors the situation and any improvements and adjusts the daily dosage if necessary based on the physiological results obtained. 

Kind regards, 

Beatrice Iozzino, Pharmacist