Modified magnesium and lipoproteins in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have shown to be helpful in the therapy of ADHD. Various stabilizing co-factors may contribute to this effect, as like magnesium (Mg). Mg supports fatty acid enzyme activity and is essential for the neuronal activity. However, the way of Mg to influence psychic processes, particularly in ADHS, is not yet known precisely. Therefore, in this study the concentrations of further lipid parameters were assessed. We intended to prove, if there is a lack of Mg and someone different lipoprotein concentration in ADHD patients compared to controls.

In nine boys with ADHD (8.2 ± 0.6 years) and 11 controls (7.9 ± 0.87 years), blood serum Mg, total cholesterol, triglycerides, Lipoprotein Lipase, total Phospholipids, Apolipoproteins a and b, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol were measured, under two different stressful conditions.

In ADHD, Mg and HDL concentrations were significantly higher and Apob lower than in controls.

Contrary to our supposition, in ADHD was no lack, but an excess of Mg. HDL was hightened and Apob lowered. Lipoprotein metabolism seems to be modified in ADHD.