Essential Fatty Acids and ADD/ADHD

By Nina Anderson and Dr. Howard Peiper
Source: excerpted from ADD, The Natural Approach
Publishing Date: 1996

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are incredibly simple to obtain and can make a noticeable difference in one's health if taken on a regular basis. The most fortunate among us received EFA's from our mother's breast milk if were nursed as infants. This helps the baby's brain develop the way it is supposed to. The curious thing about EFA's is that they must be obtained from outside food sources since the body cannot make them. Found in high concentrations in the brain, EFA's aid transmission of nerve impulses and are needed for normal brain functioning - this is their direct connection to treating children with ADD. EFA's - also referred to as Omega-3's or Omega-6's - are indicated for children and adolescents with ADD because EFA's are food for the brain.

Evidence states that the infants of mother's who were sufficiently supplied throughout their pregnancies with essential fatty acids, are brighter and learn faster. Yet, all is not lost if EFA's have been lacking in the diet even since birth. It is possible to supply these nutrients now and still enjoy the benefits, and in a relatively short period of time.

Flax meal and borage oil are the best sources for children. Borage oil may be taken in the capsule form. Flax meal is a food supplement that may be sprinkled on salads, soups, and cereal. Flax meal has a pleasant, nutty flavor.

-excerpted from ADD, The Natural Approach by Nina Anderson and Dr. Howard Peiper, ( $4.95 + shipping) Safe Goods Publishing (888) NATURE-1

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