Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026
Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
A pilot randomized controlled trial of omega-3 fatty acids for autism spectrum disorder
Stephen Bent1, Kiah Bertoglio, Paul Ashwood
1Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco VAMC, 111-A1, 4150 Clement St., San Francisco, CA 94121, USA. Stephen.Bent@ucsf.edu
Insights
Omega-3 fatty acids showed potential for treating hyperactivity in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While not statistically significant in this pilot, the treatment was safe and well-tolerated, with some correlation to reduced hyperactivity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition often associated with behavioral challenges like hyperactivity.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats with potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
- Exploring novel therapeutic avenues for managing ASD symptoms is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, safety, and initial efficacy of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation for hyperactivity in young children with ASD.
- To investigate the relationship between fatty acid levels and hyperactivity changes.
Main Methods:
- A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 27 children aged 3-8 with ASD.
- Participants received either omega-3 fatty acids (1.3 g/day) or a placebo for 12 weeks.
- Hyperactivity was measured using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist.
Main Results:
- Hyperactivity scores improved by 2.7 points in the omega-3 group versus 0.3 points in the placebo group (p = 0.40).
- A statistically significant difference was not detected, but a moderate effect size (0.38) was observed.
- Correlations between decreased fatty acid levels and reduced hyperactivity were noted.
- The omega-3 treatment was well-tolerated by participants.
Conclusions:
- This pilot study suggests omega-3 fatty acids are a feasible and safe intervention for hyperactivity in children with ASD.
- While not statistically significant, the observed trend and correlations warrant further investigation.
- Larger trials are needed to confirm potential small to moderate beneficial effects of omega-3s for ASD-related hyperactivity.
Abstract:
We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial to determine the feasibility and initial safety and efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids (1.3 g/day) for the treatment of hyperactivity in 27 children ages 3-8 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). After 12 weeks, hyperactivity, as measured by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist, improved 2.7 (± 4.8) points in the omega-3 group compared to 0.3 (± 7.2) points in the placebo group (p = 0.40; effect size = 0.38). Correlations were found between decreases in five fatty acid levels and decreases in hyperactivity, and the treatment was well tolerated. Although this pilot study did not find a statistically significant benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, the small sample size does not rule out small to moderate beneficial effects.
