Reviewed by Jessie, BSc Biomedical Science · Formulation Lead, Purest Kids
Why the question matters
ADHD affects a meaningful proportion of school-aged children, and parents of children with attention difficulties often investigate nutritional interventions alongside medical and behavioural approaches. Omega-3 supplementation has received more research attention in this area than almost any other nutritional factor.
What the research shows
Multiple meta-analyses have examined the relationship between omega-3 supplementation and ADHD-related outcomes. A 2017 meta-analysis covering 10 randomised controlled trials found modest but statistically significant improvements in inattention and hyperactivity scores with omega-3 supplementation, particularly when supplementation was higher in EPA. A Cochrane review was more cautious, noting that while some trials showed positive effects, the evidence quality was low to moderate.
What it does not mean
Omega-3 supplementation is not a treatment for ADHD. It does not replace medical diagnosis, behavioural intervention, or medication where prescribed. The research supports the idea that omega-3 deficiency may be one contributing factor among many — not that supplementation will eliminate symptoms.
It is also worth noting that much of the ADHD research used EPA-dominant formulations, while Purest Kids Omega-3 is DHA-dominant (450mg DHA, 150mg EPA). This distinction matters when interpreting which research is most applicable.
The baseline argument
Regardless of the ADHD-specific evidence, adequate DHA is important for brain development and function in all children. If a child has ADHD and is also omega-3 deficient — which research suggests is common — supplementation addresses the deficiency even if it does not resolve the ADHD. The case for adequate DHA does not depend on ADHD status.
Omega-3 Mango Burstlets — 450mg DHA per serve, for children aged 3+ →
References
- Chang JP, et al. "Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in youths with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Neuropsychopharmacology, 2018.
- Gillies D, et al. "Polyunsaturated fatty acids for ADHD in children and adolescents." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2012.