Fish Oil for ADHD: How Does Fish Oil Help ADHD and How Much Do You Need?

Living with ADHD is a daily battle, not just for the individual struggling with this condition but also for those around them. Whether you’re a parent raising a child with ADHD or an adult looking to navigate life while feeling held back by this developmental disability, it’s tough.

The constant restlessness, lack of concentration, impulsiveness, etc. - it can make even the simplest things in life a challenge. Fortunately, there are treatments that don’t require you to dull your personality like adderall or other medications. One of the most interesting is fish oil.

Wait, is fish oil good for ADHD? If so, how does fish oil help ADHD exactly? This complete guide to fish oil and ADHD is going to cover everything you need to know to effectively harness this supplement to improve your day-to-day life.

There are many studies suggesting regular intake of omega 3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, can improve cognitive function and assist with this condition. The key, though, is finding the best fish oil for ADHD adults or kids - and it’s just a few clicks away at Smarter Vitamins!

Our omega 3 fish oil 1000mg is sourced from the wild waters of Alaska and molecularly distilled to ensure the utmost potency and purity. It’s helped countless parents and adults alike, and we’re confident it can do the same for you. Learn more about our ADHD fish oil below!

Overview of Fish Oil and ADHD

Before we make the connection between fish oil and ADHD let’s take a moment to unpack the condition itself and fish oil separately. So, what is ADHD, exactly, and how does fish oil fit into the puzzle that is managing this disability?

What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. 

It affects millions of children and often continues into adulthood. Individuals with ADHD may struggle with organizing tasks, maintaining attention, and managing time and space efficiently. These challenges can impact academic performance, interpersonal relationships, and workplace success.

ADHD is commonly divided into three subtypes: predominantly inattentive presentation (often referred to as ADD), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation, and combined presentation, which includes symptoms of both of the first two types.

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation and typically cannot be done during a standard health visit because it requires multiple steps, including medical exams, interviews, and obtaining a detailed history from multiple sources such as family, teachers, and often, the individuals themselves.

But once a diagnosis is reached, treatment includes a combination of medications, psychotherapy, education or training, or a mixture of treatments. 

Medication, particularly stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate, is commonly prescribed and can help improve symptoms by increasing brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine.

As you may already realize, though, these medications have problematic side effects and shortcomings. They can increase heart rate and blood pressure, lead to sleep problems, and cause mood swings. In children specifically, concerns include the potential impact on growth rates and the risk of misuse or dependency. 

Above all else, though, those who have to rely on these medications report feeling as if a piece of them is being “dulled” - which is where the idea of using something more natural like ADHD fish oil becomes compelling.

What is Fish Oil? 

This dietary supplement is derived from the tissues of oily fish. It contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats the body cannot produce on its own. 

The two primary omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are where the omega 3 fish oil benefits come from.

These benefits range from cardiovascular health to omega 3 fish oil benefits for skin, omega 3 fish oil for fertility, omega 3 fish oil for eyes, omega 3 fish oil for inflammation, omega 3 fish oil for hair, and more. 

But more relevantly for our conversation on using ​​ADHD fish oil, these fatty acids play a role in brain health, contributing to the development and function of neural cells. This is what makes them an interesting consideration for managing disorders like ADHD.

Is Fish Oil Good for ADHD?

Now, let’s get into what you really came here for - is fish oil good for ADHD? We know that you can use omega 3 fish oil for brain fog, but what about treating a more complex neurological disability?

According to the research, the potential to use fish oil for ADHD is promising. Some studies have referenced that children with ADHD may have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their bodies compared to their peers without the condition, suggesting a potential deficiency that could influence ADHD behaviors.

Fish oil supplements have also shown modest improvement in symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattentiveness. While fish oil may just be one piece of the puzzle in managing ADHD, the potential is promising. But let’s get more specific - how does fish oil help ADHD?

How Does Fish Oil Help ADHD?

The key components in fish oil are DHA and EPA, as we discussed earlier. These are what deliver the benefits this supplement has become so popular for.

DHA in particular is a major structural component of the brain and is essential for brain development and function. It improves cell membrane fluidity and promotes better communication between brain cells. 

EPA, on the other hand, influences the chemical messengers in the brain, playing a role in battling inflammation which might affect brain function. After all, chronic inflammation can affect brain health and function, potentially exacerbating ADHD symptoms.

Fish oil can influence the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are often imbalanced in individuals with ADHD. Omega-3 fatty acids may increase dopamine levels to assist with attention and task completion. They also help balance acetylcholine, which is important for memory and learning, and serotonin, which affects mood.

How Much Fish Oil for ADHD Treatment Do I Need Daily?

It’s clear that fish oil holds great potential for those living with ADHD, but how much fish oil for ADHD is needed remains up in the air. 

Just like with how long it takes for fish oil to work, there are many moving pieces influencing the optimal dosage for your unique situation. These include age, weight, overall health, and the concentration of EPA and DHA in the fish oil supplement.

In general, though, here’s what clinical studies suggest from a dosage standpoint:

• Children (under 12 years): 500 to 1000 mg of combined EPA and DHA.
• Teens and Adults: 1000 to 2000 mg of combined EPA and DHA.

However, we do recommend starting at the lower end of that dosage range to see how your body responds and avoid experiencing any unpleasant omega 3 fish oil side effects. If the symptoms of ADHD do not improve after a few weeks, you may consider upping the dosage marginally.

All that being said, it’s also important to consider the ratio of EPA to DHA in dosing your fish oil. We believe the best fish oil for ADHD in adults and kids alike has a ratio of 4:1 or higher of EPA to DHA. Speaking of which, let’s talk about choosing the right supplement below. 

Tips on Choosing the Best Fish Oil for ADHD in Adults and Kids Alike

In order to actually see improvements in ADHD symptoms when using fish oil, it’s imperative that you’re using the best supplement available. Whether you’re looking for omega 3 fish oil for kids or adults, here are some tips on how to tell if your fish oil is good quality.

Check the EPA and DHA Content

The efficacy of your supplement hinges on its content of EPA and DHA, as we’ve discussed throughout this guide. So, look for supplements that clearly list the amounts of EPA and DHA on the label.

Ideally, there would be a higher ratio of EPA to DHA, as EPA is particularly beneficial for reducing inflammation and managing behavioral symptoms associated with ADHD.

Purity and Safety

While fish oil is generally considered safe, lower-quality supplements can put you at risk of being exposed to toxins like mercury, PCBs, and dioxins. 

That’s why details on sourcing should be readily available, as should third-party lab testing results so you can place your order with peace of mind. Look for testing to be done through the International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS), NSF International, or the United States Pharmacopeia (USP).

We recommend fish oil sourced from small, wild-caught fish like salmon, anchovies, sardines, or mackerel, which are typically lower in contaminants. These also have the ideal fat content for optimal omega 3 production. 

You should also assess whether the supplement contains allergens such as soy, gluten, or dairy if sensitivity is a concern. Avoid those with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Ease of Use

Most fish oil is fairly easy to use, but many complain about the fishy aftertaste and burps that come from this supplement. Some companies put measures in place to mitigate these unpleasant effects and ensure you have an enjoyable experience using the supplement.

It’s also worth making sure that the supplement is usable for kids and adults alike, and that you can tailor the dosage accordingly. Otherwise, you may end up under or overdosing relative to your needs.

Why Smarter Vitamins is the #1 ADHD Fish Oil Supplement on the Market

There are so many products at your disposal when looking for the best fish oil for ADHD in adults and kids, which can leave you overwhelmed. The good news? Your search for the best omega-3 fish oil on the market ends right here at Smarter Vitamins.

Our supplement is sourced from salmon caught in the wild waters of the Bering sea, ensuring unparalleled purity and potency. So, how much omega 3 is in fish oil at Smarter Vitamins? 800mg of EPA and 600mg of DHA. 

Our fish oil undergoes a rigorous molecular distillation process to ensure it is free from heavy metals, PCBs, and other toxins, guaranteeing safety and efficacy. We also implement third-party testing and certification so you can feel confident you’re getting the solution you deserve.

You’ll also love the berry flavor of our softgels that eliminate the unpleasant fishy taste and burps of other supplements. We’ve even gone as far as backing your order with a 60-day money-back return policy, so you can enjoy peace of mind.  

Learn more about the best time to take omega 3 fish oil to make the most of this supplement as you start using fish oil for ADHD treatment. We also have tips on using L theanine and caffeine for ADHD.

But before we wrap up our guide to ADHD fish oil, though, here are a few more tips on managing this condition so you can live life to the fullest.

More Tips on Managing ADHD to Live Your Life Without Limits

Living with ADHD doesn't mean you have to feel limited in your daily activities or personal achievements. Even with the best fish oil for ADHD in adults and kids, there are other things you can do to support a healthier, happier life - in work, school, relationships, and everything in between.

• Establish a Structured Routine: This includes regular meal times, a consistent sleep schedule, and designated times for work, relaxation, and physical activity. Structure helps minimize chaos, which can reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety common in individuals with ADHD.
• Prioritize Task Management: Using tools such as planners, digital apps, or checklists can make a substantial difference. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting clear deadlines can also help maintain focus and productivity.
• Create a Supportive Environment: This might involve organizing your living and work spaces to minimize distractions, using noise-canceling headphones in noisy areas, or setting up quiet, clutter-free zones that facilitate concentration.
• Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Exercise not only helps in reducing stress and excess energy but also boosts brain chemicals like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which are crucial for attention and mood regulation. 
• Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: This can improve focus and reduce impulsivity and anxiety. Regular practice can help individuals with ADHD develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, enhancing the ability to cope with daily stresses.
• Consider Professional Help: Working with professionals such as therapists or ADHD coaches can provide valuable skills and strategies tailored to personal needs. Behavioral therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other forms of counseling can offer support in managing behaviors, improving self-esteem, and teaching coping strategies.

Create a comprehensive plan for managing ADHD and see how much easier life becomes. You’ll be amazed at your ability to integrate in society without the need for sketchy medications that hold you back from your full potential!

Final Thoughts on Fish Oil and ADHD

That concludes our guide to fish oil and ADHD. So, how does fish oil help with ADHD? It all comes down to the omega 3 fatty acids found within this supplement, including DHA, but more importantly, EPA.

These nutrients are essential for brain health, supporting cognitive functions and mitigating symptoms associated with ADHD. While fish oil is not a cure, it can enhance traditional treatment methods by improving overall brain function and reducing inflammation. 

Now that you know how much fish oil for ADHD and where to find the best ADHD fish oil, it’s time to see firsthand what a difference this simple supplement can make in your day-to-day life.

Our blog has additional resources on fish oil vs omega 3, does omega 3 lower cholesterol, cod liver vs fish oil, is fish oil safe during pregnancy, how is fish oil made, and more.

But with the support you need for ADHD just a few clicks away at Smarter Vitamins, what are you waiting for? Stop letting this neurological disability dictate your life. Start living on your own terms with the best fish oil for ADHD today.