Efficacy of Omega-3 and Korean Red Ginseng in Children with Subthreshold ADHD: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Jeewon Lee1, Soyoung Irene Lee1
1Department of Psychiatry, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea.
Insights
Omega-3 fatty acids and Korean red ginseng supplementation show promise for improving attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children. This combination may also positively impact cognitive functions in children with subthreshold ADHD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Psychiatry
Background:
- Subthreshold Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Nutritional interventions, including omega-3 fatty acids and herbal supplements, are increasingly explored for ADHD management.
- Korean red ginseng is recognized for its potential cognitive-enhancing properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a combined supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids and Korean red ginseng.
- To assess the impact on ADHD symptoms and cognitive functions in children diagnosed with subthreshold ADHD.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.
- Involved 120 children aged 6-12 years with subthreshold ADHD.
- Primary outcome: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). Secondary outcomes: Children Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and neuropsychological tests (attention, memory, executive function).
Main Results:
- The combined supplementation significantly improved ADHD-RS scores.
- Significant positive effects were observed on several CBCL subscales, including ADHD and attention problems.
- Neuropsychological assessments indicated potential benefits in cognitive functions.
Conclusions:
- Combined omega-3 and Korean red ginseng supplementation may offer a beneficial therapeutic option for children with subthreshold ADHD.
- Highlights the need for greater clinical recognition and management of ADHD symptoms, even at subthreshold levels.
- Suggests further research into nutritional strategies for pediatric ADHD.
Objective:
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of combined omega-3 and Korean red ginseng supplementation on ADHD symptoms and cognitive function in children with subthreshold ADHD.
Method:
120 children from 6 to 12 years with subthreshold ADHD were enrolled in this 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebocontrolled study. The primary outcome was measured by Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). Children Behavior Check List (CBCL), and neuropsychological tests assessing attention, memory, and executive function were included as secondary primary outcome measures.
Results:
Significant effects on the scores of ADHDRS, as well as several subscales of CBCL including ADHD and attention problem subscales were revealed.
Conclusion:
The combination of omega-3 and Korean red ginseng may have beneficial effects in children with subthreshold ADHD. Increased clinical awareness of ADHD symptoms even at a subthreshold level is needed.
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