School to trial fish-oil therapy

Thousands of families could be helped by a ground-breaking trial starting in Norfolk today measuring the effect of fish-oil supplements on youngsters with autism, dyslexia and Asperger Syndrome.

A group of 38 boys aged 10 to 16 at Eaton Hall Special School in Norwich will begin taking the eye q omega 3 fish oil supplements daily for the next six months.

The official trial - the first in the country involving children with special needs - could have far-reaching implications in the treatment of the conditions for thousands of youngsters and their families.

Drugs such as Ritalin, prescribed to those with attention deficit disorder and ADHD, often have side-effects such as loss of appetite and insomnia. The trial will look at whether omega fish oils can reduce those symptoms and enable the youngsters to return to mainstream education.

Lianne Quantrill, project co-ordinator at the school, said it was the first detailed look at children with special needs and it could help improve their concentration levels and mood.

“There is already mounting evidence to suggest benefits from taking omega 3 fish oils, particularly for those with behavioural problems who may already have fatty acid deficiencies,” she said.

“The results of the trial could well go on to effect national attitudes towards the link between dietary supplements and this kind of behaviour.

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