Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) for children with specific learning disorders.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Specific learning disorders affect approximately 5% of school children, with reading disorders being the most common.
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including omega-3 and omega-6, are crucial for brain and retinal function and learning.
• Some children with learning disorders exhibit PUFA deficiencies, suggesting potential benefits from supplementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of PUFA supplementation on learning outcomes in children with specific learning disorders.
• To identify any adverse effects associated with PUFA supplementation in this population.

Main Methods:

• A systematic search of multiple databases and trials registers was conducted in November 2015.
• Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs involving children under 18 with diagnosed specific learning disabilities.
• Two independent reviewers screened studies, contacted authors for clarification, and assessed evidence quality using the GRADE approach.

Main Results:

• Two small studies (116 children) using omega-3 and omega-6 supplements for three months were included, with generally low risk of bias but unclear/high reporting bias in one study.
• No studies reported data on primary learning outcomes (reading, writing, spelling, math).
• PUFA supplementation did not increase gastrointestinal disturbances (low-quality evidence), and no other adverse effects were reported. ADHD-related behaviors were reported but could not be meta-analyzed.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence is insufficient to conclude whether PUFA supplementation affects learning abilities in children with specific learning disorders.
• High-quality, well-designed RCTs with standardized diagnostic criteria are necessary to draw firm conclusions.