An updated systematic review on the effects of n-3 longchain polyunsaturated fatty acids on autistic spectrum disorder
Abstract
Objectives: It has been suggested that omega-3 fatty acids deficiency could play a role in the pathogenesis of several psychiatric disorders, especially autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This systematic reviewof all available studieswas conducted to assess the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acid supplementations on the core features of ASD.
Methods: To find the relevant articles, databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane between 1966 and December 2016 were searched. The criteria of selecting studies were English language; oral administration of n3 fatty acids supplements; clinical trials involving human patients with autism; and relationships between omega-3 fatty acids, DHA or EPA supplementation, as well as fish oil, and autism-related clinical- and social-related outcomes.
Results: We identified 337 articles in the systematic search, nine articles were finally chosen to be included in the review. Most studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can reduce hyperactivity and social problems in individuals diagnosedwith autism. However, no significant association has been reported between omega-3 fatty acid supplementation as compared to placebo in behavioral abnormalities in most of the studies.
Conclusion: Based on the available literature, omega-3 fatty acids can act as an effective supplement in individuals with autism.
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| Files | ||
| Issue | Vol 4, No 1 (Winter 2018) | |
| Section | Review Article(s) | |
| Keywords | ||
| Autism Behavior Omega-3 fatty acids Hyperactivity Social problems | ||
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