Essential Fatty Acids for Learning
By Petra Hunter, (ND BHSc (Nat)) Published 2004, BioCeuticals, USA

Scientists have identified a number of key nutrients that have a positive influence on brain function. Among these, essential fatty acids have been extensively researched and a promising link has been found between their supplementation and improvements in learning, behaviour and concentration. Essential fatty acids are required by every cell in the human body - where they form an integral part of the cell membrane - and we all require a certain amount from our diet in order to survive.

The biochemistry behind fatty acid metabolism is very complex, but we only need to understand a few basic rules. The most commonly available omega-3 fatty acid in the diet is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and the most common omega-6 fatty acid is linoleic acid (LA). Normally the body must convert ALA and LA into other fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), to be incorporated into the brain and other body systems. However, in some cases the body is inefficient in its conversion of these fatty acids to the forms that it really needs.

DHA is especially important in brain function as it is used to build nerve endings, and is required by the areas of the brain that provide us with judgement and the ability to stay focused. Tuna oil is the richest commercially available source of DHA, however tuna meat is often contaminated with mercury and PCBs, and it is not advisable to consume large quantities of the actual fish. Instead, choose a tuna oil supplement from a manufacturer that can verify it to be mercury and PCB free.

The omega-6 fatty acids needed by the brain are gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arachidonic acid (AA). AA is relatively common in dietary sources such as animal fats and certain vegetable oils. The principal source of GLA is evening primrose oil.

ADD/ADHD
Dr Michael Lyon conducted a study that examined the essential fatty acid content in the blood of 76 children diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Most of these children had adequate levels of ALA, however low levels of DHA were found in more than 80%. This suggests that children with ADHD usually obtain adequate amounts of ALA in their diets but are unable to convert it efficiently to DHA.

The same study also indicated that 1 in 5 children had inadequate levels of GLA, even though they had adequate levels of LA and AA. Dr Lyon concluded that since it is very expensive to measure essential fatty acids in the blood, the best solution may be to give all children a supplement that is rich in both DHA and GLA. By providing EPA/DHA directly from fish oil along with GLA from evening primrose oil the problem of converting the omega-3 and -6 fatty acids is avoided.

Abnormalities of fatty acid metabolism may not only help account for many of the features common to conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia, but also other neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Dyslexia/Dyspraxia
Dr Jacqueline Stordy has reported great success with a combination of high DHA fish oil, Evening Primrose Oil, and Thyme Oil in the treatment of problems such as dyslexia and dyspraxia, a developmental co-ordination disorder. Dr Stordy also highlighted that children who take sources of both essential fatty acids became calmer and have improved reading skills.

These findings are in accordance with a study by British scientists Alexandra Richardson and Basant Puri, whose research also indicates that supplemental fatty acids can assist learning-disabled children with dyslexia and ADHD to behave better and think clearer. The supplement used in the trial was based on EPA/DHA derived from fish oil and GLA from Evening Primrose Oil. "Abundant evidence points to the importance of specific fatty acids in brain development and function. These fatty acids are often under consumed or under produced in children with behavioural and learning challenges" Dr Richardson noted.

Use of Amphetamine-based Drugs
ADHD is the most common behavioural disorder in children, and mounting controversy over the widespread use of methylphenidate (Ritalin) and other amphetamine-based drugs makes it imperative that alternative modalities are implemented for ADHD management. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 217,000 prescriptions for dexamphetamine sulfate were dispensed during 1999-2000, and this number does not include Ritalin as it is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

From foetal development through to childhood, adolescence and adulthood, brain-critical nutrients influence academic performance, mood, and behaviour. The omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, and the omega-6 fatty acid GLA play a critical role in brain development and function.