The Effects of Omega-3/6 Fatty Acids and Vitamin D on Children with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Narrative Review

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental syndrome very common among children. The main cause of this disorder is unknown, and it seems that a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, psychosocial, neurochemical, and nutritional factors are involved. Diet seems to be one of the etiological factors for ADHD, as lower levels of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids have been reported in children with ADHD. In the present study, we reviewed the studies on the relationship of omega-3/6 fatty acid and vitamin D supplementation with ADHD. A literature search was conducted in different databases including Google Scholar, Science Direct, SID, PubMed, and MagIran using the following keywords: omega-3/6 fatty acid, PUFA, ADHD, Vitamin D, and Nutrient. Fifty-two records were retrieved and 30 articles were finally included in the review. It was concluded that omega-3/6 fatty acids and vitamin D supplements have potential efficacy in decreasing the ADHD symptoms among children, but further studies are needed to find the underlying mechanisms of such treatments and to determine the optimal dose of these treatments and if it is better to be used as a single treatment or in combination with other medication