Childhood is a crucial period of life during which emotional regulation and social skills are intensively developed. It's perfectly normal for children to occasionally exhibit impulsive behavior during this time. However, persistently poor impulse control can negatively impact social behavior, academic performance, and self-esteem.
This highlights the influence that nutrition can have on child development. In recent years, several studies have investigated the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and certain aspects of child behavior regulation.
Omega-3 fatty acids and brain development
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid, is a natural component of brain structure. It contributes to normal brain function—a claim approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) when daily intake of DHA is at least 250 mg.
Scientific studies have described a link between insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids and certain behavioral characteristics in children. These include:
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Difficulty concentrating
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Restlessness and high activity
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Impulsive behavior
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Emotional fluctuations
Potential connections with impulse control
Some studies suggest that regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids as part of a balanced diet may be associated with improved emotional balance and more adaptive social behavior in children. Similar observations have also been made in children with attention and concentration problems.
In certain studies, children who were given additional omega-3 fatty acids showed positive developments in attention span and behavior - especially if they already had challenges with impulse control or hyperactivity.
Important note on individual support
Every child is unique. Omega-3 fatty acids are not an isolated solution, but they can be part of a comprehensive approach to promoting a child's well-being. An appropriate diet including omega-3 sources can be particularly helpful in cases of behavioral challenges or reduced attention.
Please note:
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Healthy development is based on several pillars – these include a balanced diet, a loving environment and reliable support.
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Dietary supplements should only be taken in consultation with a medical professional.
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Omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to normal brain function, but do not replace therapeutic or educational measures.
References:
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Albermann M, Emery S, Baumgartner N, Strumberger M, Erb S, Wöckel L, Müller-Knapp U, Rhiner B, Contin-Waldvogel B, Bachmann S, Schmeck K, Berger G; Omega-3 Study Team; Häberling I. Executive functions and borderline personality features in adolescents with major depressive disorder. Front Hum Neurosci. 2023 Jun 22;17:957753. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.957753. PMID: 37425294; PMCID: PMC10325791.
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Gillies D, Leach MJ, Perez Algorta G. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2023 Apr 14;4(4):CD007986. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007986.pub3. PMID: 37058600; PMCID: PMC10103546.
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Bloch MH, Qawasmi A. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for the treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptomatology: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2011 Oct;50(10):991-1000. doi: 10.1016/j.jaac.2011.06.008. Epub 2011 Aug 12. PMID: 21961774; PMCID: PMC3625948.
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Ramalho R, Pereira AC, Vicente F, Pereira P. Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A comprehensive review of the evidence. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2018 Jun;25:1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2018.03.126. Epub 2018 Apr 10. PMID: 29779801.
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Raine A, Ang RP, Choy O, Hibbeln JR, Ho RM, Lim CG, Lim-Ashworth NSJ, Ling S, Liu JCJ, Ooi YP, Tan YR, Fung DSS. Omega-3 (ω-3) and social skills interventions for reactive aggression and childhood externalizing behavior problems: a randomized, stratified, double-blind, placebo-controlled, factorial trial. Psychol Med. 2019 Jan;49(2):335-344. doi: 10.1017/S0033291718000983. Epub 2018 May 10. PMID: 29743128.
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Waylen A, Ford T, Goodman R, Samara M, Wolke D. Can early intake of dietary omega-3 predict childhood externalizing behavior? Acta Paediatr. 2009 Nov;98(11):1805-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2009.01434.x. Epub 2009 Jul 22. PMID: 19627260.10.1016/j.jaac.2011.06.008. Epub 2011 Aug 12. PMID: 21961774; PMCID: PMC3625948.
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Rodrigues DM, Manfro GG, Levitan RD, Steiner M, Meaney MJ, Silveira PP. Moderating effect of PLIN4 genetic variant on impulsivity traits in 5-year-old children born small for gestational age. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent