Has it helped significantly/noticeably? Have others commented on a change that they've seen? Was it recommended by your doctor? A friend? Did you read about it on the internet?

What good or bad do you have to say about it? (Or are you still out with a "no comment" at this point)?

Is it supposed to help focus? I was unaware of that. Thanks, I'll have to try it.

I wasn't paying attention to if it helped me focus- but i sure felt a LOT better with it. Wish i could afford it regularly. The way i took it was through flax seed oil- but I still havn't found a palatable way of drinking that... stuff. Shakes were too much of a commitment to make, and the oil made them taste terrible (but not too bad with fresh blueberries!), flax seed oil capsules are a rip off. I just chug it straight from the bottle- that stuff is so bitter that it wakes me up faster than coffee! Yuck. Now that I think of it, it may have helped me focus; because it gave me healthy energy and I was able to get more done that I could without it. I strongly recommend flax seed oil (found out about it by working in a health-food store), but not the taste!

I took it for my asthma but I'm not sure it helped for that or my ADD symptoms. My cats liked the capsules too!

I've been taking Omega 3 from flaxseeds and walnuts lately. It DOES help, especially if I take it on regular basis and take at least 25 mg of Vitamin B6 with it.

Subtlmuttle, bitter flax oil is not normal! If the flaxseeds or flaxseed oil is bitter, that means it is rancid. Flax oil tends to be very unstable, that's why I switched to flaxseeds themself. I buy them whole and grind it up in a vegetable chopper.

I went to GNC to get some Fish Oil soft gels for myself. (my wife doesn't like the potential of fish burps)
They had Flaxseed oil soft gels there, so I got her some.

I need to do more research on the safest way to get Omega 3 Fatty Acids to my 9yr old with ADHD.

They have a product called Coromega Omega-3. It' comes in an orange flavor packet. I have not tried it my self but have heard great things from some people who have.

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They also offer a free sample at their site
http://www.coromega.com/06Free_Sample/form_consumers.html

Is there suppose to be a difference in how you take the Fish Oil? Is it ok just to buy the supplement caples?

I just picked up Spring Valley Natural Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids Enteric Coated. Says not order or fishy aftertaste.

I just started today - so will have to give feed back later after I have tired it a while.

I just bought 3 bottles (it was on special 3 for the price of 2)of eye q liquid for John to try out to see if it helps him any.

although it citris or vannila flavoured its not very nice to take so i might have to get him the capsules instead.

I thought it was only one spoon a day (silly me )but when you first start out with it - its 3 spoons a day for 12 wks until it has built up in your system, than its reduced to one.

so i dont know as yet if he will co-operate with me and take it we'll have to see how it goes

I think there are two kinds of omega acids the 6 and the 3. One is from fish and one is from flax I forget which is which. You need both, ideally in a specific ratio, and both are supposed to help with ADD related symptoms, memory, attention etc.

The ground flax seeds are supposed to be pretty palatable, I have seen where you sprinkle it on yogurt or ice cream, mix it in with cereal or juice, or use it in baking as a substitute for some of the reciepe's flour.

Both the Flax an the fish oils contain omega-3. The difference with the flax seed oil is that it comes in ALA form and the body must convert is to DHA. Fish oil is already in the DHA form.

I feel calmer, get less anxious and irritable, but it hasn't really helped with focus.

I have taken omega 3 supplements. I have also done a lot of research on them. I haven't looked much into Omega 6 though.
Heres what I have found out about them.
They help many things. Fish oils have been known for ages with how they can be healthy for the body. They can help a wide range of things. Heres some info I found searching the web a couple of years ago that I saved. I forgot to save what sight I pulled it from so I will just post it for you all here. I watched a show on how it helps heart diease on Opera last year and the number 1 heart Dr. strongly recommened it to help reverse heart diease. It can help focus as well but for those of you just trying it know this: it takes several. several weeks to notice its effects. Someone close to you may notice changes in your behavior/ mood before you do. Somethings it helps that this site didn't mention. Like you may become less moody,hair and nail growth may improve. It seems to help the immune system to. Some people who get sick offten find that taking omega 3 lessens how offten they get sick.

-Improve heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to play a part in keeping cholesterol levels low, stabilizing irregular heart beat (arrhythmia), and reducing blood pressure. Researchers now believe that alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), one of the omega-3s, is particularly beneficial for protecting against heart and vessel disease, and for lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels. An excellent source of ALA is flaxseed oil, sold as both a liquid oil and a semisolid margarine-like spread.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also natural blood thinners, reducing the "stickiness" of blood cells (called platelet aggregation), which can lead to such complications as blood clots and stroke.

-Reduce hypertension. Studies of large groups of people have found that the more omega-3 fatty acids people consume, the lower their overall blood pressure level is. This was the case with the Greenland Eskimos who ate a lot of oily, cold-water fish, for example.
-Improve rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Raynaud's disease, and other autoimmune diseases. Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish oils) have been shown to increase survival in people with autoimmune diseases. This is probably because the omega-3s help the arteries--as well as many other parts of the body--stay inflammation free. EPA and DHA are successful at this because they can be converted into natural anti-inflammatory substances called prostaglandins and leukotrienes, compounds that help decrease inflammation and pain.
In numerous studies over the years, participants with inflammatory diseases have reported less joint stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and overall fatigue when taking omega-3s.

In 1998, an exciting review of well-designed, randomized clinical trials reported that omega-3 fatty acids were more successful than a placebo ("dummy drug") in improving the condition of people with rheumatoid arthritis. The research also showed that getting more omega-3 fatty acids enabled some participants to reduce their use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

-Improve depression and symptoms of other mental health problems. The brain is remarkably fatty: In fact, this organ is 60% fat and needs omega-3s to function properly. Now researchers have discovered a link between mood disorders and the presence of low concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids in the body.
Apparently, omega-3s help regulate mental health problems because they enhance the ability of brain-cell receptors to comprehend mood-related signals from other neurons in the brain. In other words, the omega-3s are believed to help keep the brain's entire traffic pattern of thoughts, reactions, and reflexes running smoothly and efficiently.

Clinical trials are underway to further investigate whether supplementing the diet with omega-3s will reduce the severity of such psychiatric problems as mild to moderate depression, dementia, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Interestingly, the oil used to help the child with a degenerative nerve disorder in the popular film Lorenzo's Oil was an omega-3 fatty acid.


Aid cancer prevention and cancer support. Preliminary research from the University of California, Los Angeles, suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help maintain healthy breast tissue and prevent breast cancer. Also, in a recent study, participants who supplemented their diet with fish oils produced fewer quantities of a carcinogen associated with colon cancer than did a placebo group. More research into this exciting use for omega-3s is underway.

Pregnant women and infants need plenty of omega-3s to nourish the developing brain of the fetus and young child. If a pregnant woman gets too few omega-3s, the growing fetus will take all that's available. This could set the stage for depression in the mother. Talk to your obstetrician and pediatrician about specific requirements.
There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids through foods. However, if you decide to take omega-3s through supplements (especially those containing fish oils), be sure to check with your doctor first if you are taking a blood-thinner such as warfarin or heparin.

There are no known side effects associated with increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids through foods, although fish oil capsules do pose the risk of a "burp" factor. This is a harmless, although not exactly pleasant, fish-y aftertaste that occurs with some brands of fish oil capsules.



One benefit of omega-3 fatty acids is that they are very safe to consume. However, most sources recommend that fish consumption be limited to two to three servings weekly because so many fish are tainted with mercury and other contaminants. Fish oil capsules don't present this same risk.
Sorry Another one of my long post but I think most of you will find it informative.

Oh for the women I forgot to mention it can also help reduce menstrual pain. Here's a site I found on Omega 3 and how it may help ADD. http://www.naturalhealthweb.com/articles/virtue2.html You may or may not agree with all it has to say but it may help still.

I like Herbalife's "Herbalifeline".

Herbalife has prod. you can take "for ADD" to HELP. They're not allowed to say they cure anything, of course.

I've been on HL's products for energy & weight loss, and now will try out the recommended products for my newly dx'ed adhd.

just started yesterday - my doctor wrote me a prescription (so i'd get the capsules cheaper - 25% off the regular price) after i brought dr amen's book "healing add" to our last appointment!
:D

Does anyone know what the difference is between DHA and EPA? There were two omega 3 supplement bottles side by side in the shop, one said high in EPA and the other said DHA. (I chose the EPA one).

"...longer chain unsaturated fatty acids of the omega-3 series, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)..."

http://www.vistamagonline.com/articles/page.php?tp=1&p=1&id=14&s=omega_3

another website with lots of info on omega 3 is this one:

http://www.omega-3info.com/home.htm

Good info here -- thanks for the links!

I have a supplement called The Total EFA which has flax, fish, and borage oils -- but I can't remember to take it! Does anyone have a good method for remembering to take supplements throughout the day? I also take True Focus (a supplement that Julia Ross recommends in her book The Mood Cure) and it really does work very well -- when I remember to take it!

I take an Omega 3 supplement (2 capsules ) @ every meal. I use it strictly as a supplement and not as a clinical treatement. It seems to help , but even if it's really just a placebo effect, I don't care...lol. I do so many different things : 1) meds (Wellbutrin, methylphenidate SR and nortriptyline); 2) eat a high protein diet; 3) take Omega 3's and 4) workout 5 days a week, that it's difficult to sort out what's what. The main thing tho is that I ( and others) can tell when my meds are or aren't working.

I hope this helps some and I wish you luck.

Thanks for the information! I have just started with MorEPA, because the ritalin gave me heartpain, and that freaked me out (but interestingly it almost immediately helped me to focus better, and that at a low dosage). Well, hope that omega three stuff will work for me, will keep you posted :-)

I have been to lazy to inspect every single thread, but I was wondering if vegetarianism had a positive or negative influence on attention problems?

Actually, how much should we take? I was taking Efalex (as per the LCP Solution) 6 caps a day, but it gone insanely expensive. Also, would "pharmaceutical" oils better?

I went to GNC to get some Fish Oil soft gels for myself. (my wife doesn't like the potential of fish burps)
They had Flaxseed oil soft gels there, so I got her some.

I need to do more research on the safest way to get Omega 3 Fatty Acids to my 9yr old with ADHD.
There is no unsafe way to take N-3's...unless of course you are heating the oil....it is very unstable and needs to be kept refrigerated. Other than that...the best way i've found to get it into a child is to make a fruit smoothie w/ it...they can't even taste it.

I have found that great success in increasing my EFA's, once it's built up in my system, I am ok for the most part...however, it's hard to keep your diet in check all the time, and slowly it slips off and before you know it you become a scatter brain all over again...that's when I know I need to stop slacking on my diet and get my flax and fish oil!

I was taking a blend of flax and sunflower oil, touted by the manufacturer as having the 'correct' balance of omega-3 and -6. I felt FANTASTIC while on it, really did notice a difference in my concentration and clearness of head!! :D Unfortunately, it was too expensive to keep up, $26.95/bottle, at least one bottle per month. It tasted delicious. I'd take 1-2 tablespoons every day, usually as part of a homemade salad dressing.

I'm currently taking 2-4 tablespoons of whole flax seed each day. Love the other health benefits that gives me, but I have not noticed the same help with focus.

I just started taking this last week after attending a Hallowell seminar. He is a big proponent of the supplement, though he was a bit vague on how much to take. He recommended a new book by Barry Sears (the Zone Guy) called the Omega Zone diet.

I'm starting with 1000mg 2x/day. It's a capsule containing cold pressed flaxseed oil. Even if it doesn't help with concentration or focus, there are a number of other health reasons for the supplement.

TT

TowersTune: by 1000mg you mean the amount to oil or the amount of Omega-3's?

It's 1000 mg of the oil, which the bottle says contains alpha linolenic acid (Omega 3), linoleic acid (Omega 6), and oleic acid (Omega 9).

1000 mg x 2 is not enough to make any significant impact. I believe the recommended daily dosage is 1 tbsp N-3 (flax seed oil, or fish oil) per 100 lb bodyweight. So a person weighing 200 lbs needs two tbsp per day...or the equivalent in caps. One 1000mg cap is equal to 1 g of the liquid...so to get the recommended dosage in caps, you'd need to consume 28 caps per day as there's 14 g per tbsp.

And that is the minimum assuming an already perfect balance of n-3's to n-6's. Which is very rarely the case.

Smoothies.

I put 1 cup of water, 1 tsp of Flax Oil, 1 Banana, 3-4 frozen fruit (from Fruit Mix bags, like they sell at M&Ms) and then add a tbsp of pwd milk (optionally you can add Learning Factors Smoothie Mix, just a scoop for the extra nutrients).

Blend and drink!

Kelly

I went to GNC to get some Fish Oil soft gels for myself. (my wife doesn't like the potential of fish burps)
They had Flaxseed oil soft gels there, so I got her some.

I need to do more research on the safest way to get Omega 3 Fatty Acids to my 9yr old with ADHD.

Please be aware that if you are getting your omega 3 from a non-animal source, the human body is not equipped to absorb the ALA (alpha linolenic acid? I think is what it stands for) form of omega 3 fats. The truly beneficial and researched forms of omega 3 are EPA & DHA. I'm unsure what the acronyms stand for. These are found only in animal omega 3 fats. From the information I have gathered over the past few years, only about 10% is converted from ALA to the truly beneficial fats. So you are probably not giving yourself the intended omega 3 fats by ingesting flax seed oil.

Good luck.

I do eat omega 3 eggs, for whatever that is worth. I believe the chickens are fed flax seeds.

There are always extremes of opinions that say animal-food is superior and necessary to life, and those who say nothing that comes from an animal can be healthy. Usually the two extremes are tied to the meat industry and the animal rights movement/vegetarian foods/soy industry, respectively.

Of course your body can process the Omega-3 in plant sources. How could inland people who don't eat fish ever have gotten it? Remember that humans evolved on the African savannah. Best of all, the plant sources have no mercury.

The plant sources of fatty acids are important in the healthy "Mediterranean diet" which is seemingly high in fat but nonetheless is correlated with less obesity and heart disease. Yes, it includes fish, but only a tiny amount. The plant sources must be making the difference.

From:
http://www.healthandage.com/html/res/com/ConsSupplements/Omega3FattyAcidscs.html

The Mediterranean diet consists of a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and many studies have shown that people who follow this diet are less likely to develop heart disease. The Mediterranean diet does not include much meat (which is high in omega-6 fatty acids) and emphasizes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids including whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, garlic, as well as moderate wine consumption.

Please be aware that if you are getting your omega 3 from a non-animal source, the human body is not equipped to absorb the ALA (alpha linolenic acid? I think is what it stands for) form of omega 3 fats. The truly beneficial and researched forms of omega 3 are EPA & DHA. I'm unsure what the acronyms stand for. These are found only in animal omega 3 fats. From the information I have gathered over the past few years, only about 10% is converted from ALA to the truly beneficial fats. So you are probably not giving yourself the intended omega 3 fats by ingesting flax seed oil.

Good luck.

Does anyone know about milled flax seeds--is it true they don't have the Omega-3 of freshly ground flax seeds or flaxseed oil? I bought a box of the stuff a while ago and was using it in cooking, and it burns me to think it won't work and was all a waste.

You can undo the good of Omega 3s by consuming too many Omega 6s. Choose the oils you cook with carefully. I prefer Mac Nut Oil as having a good balance. I use it in a smoothie. I do mix the eggs in raw. I got absolutely sick of scrambled eggs and omelets. A little investigation determined that the risks from raw eggs are miniscule if you use them up fast and keep them well refrigerated.

I keep my non vegetable carbs low for weight reasons. White flour bread can make me binge.

Main thing: I am much, much less depressed eating a moderate carb diet.

What does macadamia nut oil taste like? cost?

I'd imagine it would be delicious but expensive.

$1 an ounce. But I often find it on sale in 16 ounce bottles for $9. It is light tasting with a slight macadamia nut flavor. Very pleasant on salads. It lets the flavor of the vegetables come through.

However, its real advantage is its high smoke point which means you can use it to pan fry without oxidization which of course creates free radicals which are bad for us.

Olive oils -- which are also very good for us -- have a low smoke point. It is best not to use them to cook with except on the lowest possible heat.

I voted "did not help at all" in the poll because I didn't find the fish oil helped with my ADD. But, it does help my skin a bit! I'm going to continue taking them for the general health benefits, but I think I might have to rely on meds for the ADD for a while. :D

I have done a little reading on The Mediterranean Diet as relates to fats -- and what varied reading it was! It seems there is no conclusive agreement on what the diet is. It is many different ways of eating. The Italians, for instance eat less cold water fish than the Greeks. Both eat more lamb that people in the U.S. for instance but less beef. Most people who have studied the diet(s) agree that the consumption of monounsaturated olive oil is a big factor in protecting the heart. They also eat more vegtables and whole grains and nuts.

Dr. Amen (ADD specialist) recommends higher protein, lower carb diets for many types of ADD, but more carbohydrates for overfocused ADDers. I have found that moderate to low carb helps my focus and my fibromyalgia.

What is missing from this discussion is just how bad things like hydrogenated vegetable proteins are for people. These are transfats. If you will look on most baked goods products you will find this is the form of fat lurking within. But I was also shocked to find them in many prepared convenience meats -- like frozen meatballs for instance. If you are eating these fats you not only increase your risk of heart disease and cancer but you also increase free radical production in your body. Free radicals make us age. Aging is in no way good for our brains. You especially need to be careful of trans fat consumption if you take Adderall or Ritalin because these medications increase free radical production already.

Whether you get good Omega 3s from vegetable or animal sources you will be more likely to get more of the good fats if you consume less of the bad fats.

URL Removed. Please review forum guidelines.

I just started taking Dr Sears Zone omega 3 tablets, but it takes about 90 days to see results. My doc says studies are very positive on DHA and depression, but a little more ambiguous on ADD. I feel confident it will help.

May I ask, what is DHA?

DHA is fish oil. Not all fish oil has it though, so you have to look for the letters DHA.

Docosahexaenoic acid (http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=34191). Click for more info.

Duh. Think how dumb the average me is. :)

Duh. Think how dumb the average me is. :)
Lol... everybody has a brain fart once in a while.

Omega 3's are made me feel very calm and relaxed. I was taking about 6grams a day and it did nothing for my ADD. I quit taking it after I horribly failed a Quanitative Chemistry test, thinking it actually made my ADD worse.

Omega 3's are made me feel very calm and relaxed. I was taking about 6grams a day and it did nothing for my ADD. I quit taking it after I horribly failed a Quanitative Chemistry test, thinking it actually made my ADD worse.
It's the timing of taking them that counts. IMO people should only take them in the evening before bed because they make you sleepy (and dopey). Their advantage is that they reduce the free radical damage that stims can cause.

It's the timing of taking them that counts. IMO people should only take them in the evening before bed because they make you sleepy (and dopey). Their advantage is that they reduce the free radical damage that stims can cause.
I take mine 3g in the morning and 3g at night. I don't get any sleepiness from them, and I haven't noticed any more dopiness than usual.

Omega 3's haven't helped with ADD for me.

We tried omega 3 with 10 year old. Took it for about 4 months and some limited improvement. He came off it to do Dore Achievement Ex but that is now finished so started to taking Eye-Q. I understood you needed high EPAs and low DHPs. Might have got the intitials slightly wrong. We were told for kids to look for Eye-Q and Effelux.

You have to kill the fish to get them! :(

I'm interested in hearing about a balanced DHA/EPA vegetarian oil, anyone know of one?

Cheers,

B

Anait, I'd like to know the brand of oil you were taking.

Thanks!

B

I was taking a blend of flax and sunflower oil, touted by the manufacturer as having the 'correct' balance of omega-3 and -6. I felt FANTASTIC while on it, really did notice a difference in my concentration and clearness of head!! :D Unfortunately, it was too expensive to keep up, $26.95/bottle, at least one bottle per month. It tasted delicious. I'd take 1-2 tablespoons every day, usually as part of a homemade salad dressing.

I'm currently taking 2-4 tablespoons of whole flax seed each day. Love the other health benefits that gives me, but I have not noticed the same help with focus.

Omega 3's are awesome for adhd/add.. I have seen total benefits with my son here.. It helps with his moods, and his tasks on hand at the time.. When we switched to the Omega3/6/9's there was NO response to nothing.. It was a few horrible weeks... So.. We did the test... He was on straight Salmon Oils before Omegas.. and he did great... and then I did a really good research on the Omega3's and them were the answer. Haven't looked back since.. I strongly suggest others with these disorders.. to take these forsure... My son age 10 takes 4000mg per day... what his body doesn't use.. he passes thru urine... So there is no harm in it at all..
Good Luck

Omega 3's are awesome for adhd/add.. I have seen total benefits with my son here.. It helps with his moods, and his tasks on hand at the time.. When we switched to the Omega3/6/9's there was NO response to nothing.. It was a few horrible weeks... So.. We did the test... He was on straight Salmon Oils before Omegas.. and he did great... and then I did a really good research on the Omega3's and them were the answer. Haven't looked back since.. I strongly suggest others with these disorders.. to take these forsure... My son age 10 takes 4000mg per day... what his body doesn't use.. he passes thru urine... So there is no harm in it at all..
Good Luck
I think the risk of taking too much is you throw your Omega 3/6 balance off in the other direction, and that can cause the symptoms to appear worse. But since most of us don't get enough Omega 3's in our diets, we'd probably have to take alot of fish oils before that happens.

I'm interested in hearing about a balanced DHA/EPA vegetarian oil, anyone know of one?

I know that flaxseed has Omega acids, but I am not sure about DHA.

I havent read all of the post replies (4 pages long!) but I heard that omega oils are suppose to help calm individuals with hyperactivities - not so much the focus itself. However, they sure do work hand-in-hand. If you're calmer you're able to stay in focus better.

I bought the omega blend 3-6-9 for my son who has ADHD. In the beginning I noticed a change. He DID appear to be calmer. BUT! You really have to be cautious on the name brand you buy. Apparently the one that I had purchased had an ingredient of citric acid. Citric acid comes naturally but it is also a chemical. The chemical has an MSG component to it so for those who are sensitive to additives, preservatives (MSG), etc.. you will really have to be careful in taking anything with citric acid - omega oils or not. After a week of taking these oils my son's temper flared big time. He was very aggressive, defiant, angry .. and so forth. It turned out to be the oils. Having said that, it's not because of the omega oils itself (I believe they work) but instead the citric acid ingredient. I'm looking for a brand (here in Canada) that will help him and that doesn't have the various ingredients he's sensitive towards. Wish me luck.

I'll post a link to support my statement soon.

I have been taking the Omegas for only a week now. They actually seem to be helping, mostly with mood but also focus, but it may be coincidence/placebo effect. However, I have been taking about 1g a day. It's got to be better than nothing, but I've heard you should take 3-5g a day. I tried to take more, but it gives me a stomach ache. Anyone know of what ingredients to watch out for other than citric acid? I take the fish oil (pills) but theres only 300mg of omega 3s in them (10 a day for 3g!?!). Anyone know of another way to get it cheap other than the pills (8 bucks for 300 caps at Sams)? (I'm can't pay 50 bucks a month for the "pharmaceutical grade" OmegaRx.) How much is the actual oil (and how many grams of omega 3s)?

THanks

BVegan - Barlean's (a brand most health food stores carry) makes a flax seed, borage seed oil combination which contains both omega 3s and 6s.

If you google Barlean's you can read about the product. I wouldn't buy it over the internet though because oils should be refridgerated and it wouldn't be during transit.

It's not just the Omega 3/6/9 that matters. It's more complicated than that.

Read up on DHA, ALA, etc. ALA is the hardest to get, IIRC. Flax Seed Oil has it.

Emma
:)

re: 57

Citric Acid is "Vitamin C".

(It is *probably* used as a preservative, as such oils tend to go rancid at room temp.)

Emma

I chance upon this site http://fishoil.atspace.com (http://fishoil.atspace.com/) telling the good-ness in fishoil
Has anyone still taking fishoil for their ADD? how much dosage did you take to be effective? I need feedback on this as I might be taking fish oil for my ADD since it is not consider a drug in Singapore

mg
I can't rememeber if I posted this in this thread or another one! I use emu oil capsules, which are high in omega 3 6 and 9. I noticed an improvement overall :-)
They are tasteless and odourless, and about $48.00 Australian..now to try and remember how many you get in a bottle.....and I am down to taking 2-3 a day
copied from the web
"Omega 3 Fatty Acids (Linolenic acid) 7.5 mg<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
Omega 6 Fatty Acids (Linoleic acid) 81.0 mg<o:p></o:p>

Omega 9 Fatty Acids (Oleic acid) 387.0

<o:p>252 capsules ..

It says nothing about concentration etc...but does mention PMS.

I started them to help with sore hip joints, and they fixed that too :p so i got a double bonus. I have had a bit more brain fog since I reduced the dosage come to think of it..maybe time to up the dosage a little bit:rolleyes:
</o:p>

I tried Omega III fatty acids and there hasn't been any difference in my ADD that I can determine -- but my skin is nicer!:) Hopefully my heart and blood vessels are too -- I see Omega III as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, but not a specific treatment for ADD.

Scattered

Here is an article by Dr. A.J. Richardson who helped conduct the Oxford Durham Trials in the UK which includes the following:

http://fp03-146.web.dircon.net/new_page_55.htm

Omega 3: EPA versus DHA?

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">Fish oil contains two major omega-3 fatty acids: EPA and DHA. Both are necessary, but until recently, it wasn’t at all clear which of these was more important in producing the benefits reported for ADHD and related conditions. In early life, plenty of DHA is needed for the growing brain – and because this fatty acid is so important for actual brain structure, it was thought that this must be reason for the apparent benefits from fish oil. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">However, the latest research makes clear that it is EPA, not DHA, which is more effective in reducing the problems with attention, perception and memory that are associated with ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. This is probably because EPA plays a more important role in the minute-by-minute functioning of the brain, and also helps to make many other substances (such as prostaglandins) that are crucial for proper signalling between cells. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">In addition, new evidence suggests that EPA may actually help in another way – by helping to protect all of the long-chain highly unsaturated fatty acids against rapid breakdown and loss. For these reasons, supplements with a high ratio of EPA to DHA are likely to be most effective. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">A note of caution should also be sounded about cod-liver oil – or any fish liver oil – for these purpos</str>es. <str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">These do provide an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids for general use, but they also contain significant levels of Vitamin A, which can be harmful in excess. One or two capsules a day should present no problems, but if high doses of fish oil are to be taken on a regular basis, the fish liver oils are probably best avoided. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">A final point concerns the quality of oils used. The popularity of both evening primrose and fish oils has led to a huge number of different supplements becoming available. Unfortunately, not all of these are of good quality, and in some cases, they may not only be ineffective, but could even contain harmful residues (either from environmental pollution or from the methods of extraction and processing used). Any reputable supplier should be able to provide information on both the source of their oils and their manufacturing methods, but at the very least, it should not be assumed that the cheapest supplements are the best value. Another point is that Vitamin E is usually included in HUFA supplements as an antioxidant to protect these fatty acids from breakdown. If it is not, additional Vitamin E supplementation may be required. </str>


4. Are there any negative side-effects from fatty acid supplements? What dosage is appropriate?

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">Highly unsaturated fatty acids are safe even in extremely large doses, and their regular consumption carries a wide range of positive health benefits. They are foodstuffs, not drugs – and moreover, they used to form an important part of our natural diet for centuries, but have been disappearing from our food in recent decades. The only known side-effects of fatty acid supplements involve mild digestive upset, although this affects very few people. Small divided doses taken with plenty of food can often eliminate such problems (and it is worth noting that choosing a high-quality oil should also help to reduce any fishy aftertastes!). </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">The appropriate dosage will vary between individuals (and in the same individual over time). It is also very important to recognise that it can sometimes take up to three months for the maximum benefits from supplementation to become apparent, owing to the slow turnover of these fatty acids in the brain. Unlike medications, they do not work rapidly to change mental functioning, and although we have found that some individuals report clear benefits as rapidly as two weeks after starting supplementation, in other cases the changes are much more gradual. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">A higher dose is therefore usually recommended for this ‘trial period’. An initial dosage of fish oil supplying around 500mg daily of EPA is probably most appropriate for dyslexia and related conditions, and if evening primrose is also included, around 50mg per day of GLA (which converts easily to DGLA and AA) is likely to be sufficient. After three months, reducing the dose to half or one-third of these levels may be appropriate, but requirements vary – both between individuals and according to circumstances - so dosages are best determined from experience and careful personal monitoring. We have found that some people may need high levels on a long-term basis to prevent symptoms from re-appearing. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">Informing the GP is strongly recommended before embarking on any kind of dietary supplementation, and this is obviously essential if someone is already taking any medications or being treated for any other condition. </str>

<str ong="" style="font-weight: 400;">As emphasised throughout, not everyone can expect noticeable benefits from taking fatty acid supplements. If no improvements are apparent within three months of starting this kind of dietary treatment, then it is reasonable to conclude that fatty acid deficiency is not a major factor for that individual. Other approaches to managing dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD should always be considered in any case.


</str> <!-- Signature -->

I've been taking fish oil capsules for about four months and can really tell a difference, they help me quite a bit - both my mood and my focus. I just started taking flax seed oil capsules along with them, will see if that helps any more.

So is EPA or DHA more important for ADD-ers?

hi,

whenever i started taking one time 8 pills of FO each day consisting of 400EPA/200DHA each pill, i would be ****ting out the fishoil from upcoming few toliet sessions. I am still having this problem despiting eating for days. However, I do feel my skin feels smoother the next morning I woke up.If I take more like 15-20 pills, I would be ****ting out the fishoil for the following few days and even a simple gas fark would come out flowing fishoil from my ***. Please note that I have ADD and is not on any medicine. I tried eating those High in DHA LOW in EPA fish oil about the same total dosage, it doesn't have the above effects at all. The High in DHA Low IN EPA fish oil does help in my ADD but I feel I can still further improve on the condition by adding EPA to my diet. But it seem eating the 8 X 400EPA/200DHA makes the condition back to my old self instead.Am I right to say my body couldn't absorb all the EPA and has to clear off them during my toilet session? It seem I am the only one having this problem in this forum. It is said in dr sears book that only eating high dosage of FO can have a effect on improving our health status. I would really any reply from any of the members here. Thanks a lot

Ok, I havent read all the reply posts but wanted to say that yes, I've tried omega oils and they've worked quite well for my son.

hi,

whenever i started taking one time 8 pills of FO each day consisting of 400EPA/200DHA each pill, i would be ****ting out the fishoil from upcoming few toliet sessions. I am still having this problem despiting eating for days. However, I do feel my skin feels smoother the next morning I woke up.If I take more like 15-20 pills, I would be ****ting out the fishoil for the following few days and even a simple gas fark would come out flowing fishoil from my ***. Please note that I have ADD and is not on any medicine. I tried eating those High in DHA LOW in EPA fish oil about the same total dosage, it doesn't have the above effects at all. The High in DHA Low IN EPA fish oil does help in my ADD but I feel I can still further improve on the condition by adding EPA to my diet. But it seem eating the 8 X 400EPA/200DHA makes the condition back to my old self instead.Am I right to say my body couldn't absorb all the EPA and has to clear off them during my toilet session? It seem I am the only one having this problem in this forum. It is said in dr sears book that only eating high dosage of FO can have a effect on improving our health status. I would really any reply from any of the members here. Thanks a lot
I'm sorry I didn't see this sooner, I've been out of town.

Wow, that sounds like quite a large dose of fish oil. I'd say it's quite likely that your body is ridding itself of the excess that is too much for it to handle. I do have a friend who tried the fish oil and she also farted, etc., fish oil all the time. Maybe some people are more sensitive to it? Maybe a smaller dose wouldn't affect you that way?

I've only been taking one pill about half that strength and believe it's been helping. I've thought about taking more but having heard about "fish farts" wasn't sure I wanted to risk that.

i find zine an omagg3 do help me to some deges wether its just short team i doon dorm ;.)))

I have been giving my 8 year old daughter omega 3 fish oil for about 2 years. She has adhd. She was on it for about 8 months before she started any medication and I can honestly say that I did not notice any difference. I still give it to her as her doctor says that there is not any harm. Anything is worth a try.

vey true kranky anythings wouth a try....i think these so much more to whats going on in the mind that theres more two it than just smpily faty acids but who knoows hope your daughters doing well dorm

I've taken fish oil for about 8 months and have noticed no change in my ADD. The one I take has a high ratio of EPA to DHA. It was recommended to me by family, my doc, and I read it in a book. My cousin says she sees improvement with her son's Asperger's Syndrome from the fish oil.

I EAT A LOT FISHS ITS THE BIGEST PART MY FOOD INTAKE NOT VERY MUCH MEAT...BUT SAYING THAT THE LEAD IN FRISH AS WELL.....SO MAYBE THE BEINFITS ARE OFFEST BY THIS FACT BETTER TO LOOK ON THE NET TO CONFREM THIS AGAIN I DONO HOW MUCH LEAD OR OTHER HAVEY MENTELS ARE NEED TO COS A PORBLEWM GOOD WAY TO DO IT IS TO JOTE DOWN EVERYTIHNG YOU EAT FOR A TICALYU 2MOUTHS EVEYTHING NO MATTER WHAT IT IS THAT WAY YOU KNOW WHAT HELPS AN WHAT HINDERS....WISH YOU LUCK DORM

I tried the 400EPA 200DHA phmarmaeutical grade last time. it seems to make my add worse...

.((((( maybe the E NUMBERS in there guy1985 could be??? dorm have look whats in it it is possable

re: 57

Citric Acid is "Vitamin C".

(It is *probably* used as a preservative, as such oils tend to go rancid at room temp.)

EmmaThat would be ascorbic acid (C₆H₈O₆), though both are found in lemons and limes ;)

Thought about trying the vegetarian capsules, since I won't go near fish, but they contain evening primrose, which gave me a massive headache for about a week straight that went away as soon as I stopped taking them. And that was at half the recommended daily dose...

I take 10 grams of omega-3 per day. That's contains about 1.5 grams of the EPA component. Helps a little bit, but not enough.

I take Nordic Naturals Balanced Omega Combination. For every 2 soft gels there is 36 mg of EPA, and 24 mg of DHA. It also contains evening primrose (800 mg/2 tablets) and GLA (Gamma Linolenic acid - 76mg/2 soft gels). This company is Norway based, the oils go through a lot of testing for heavy metals, dioxins, and PCBs. I have been told I could break this soft gel open and take it orally without tasting the fish! My healthcare provider has done this (she didn't feel she could tell people they could do it, without acutally doing it herself), but I have not. Call me chicken!

I have never had a problem with fishburps, and the company has a proprietary, patented flavoring process. There is a children's line which is strawberry flavored, and I have been told children take it with ease.

For more information regading balanced omega, as well as educational information regarding EPA, DHA, and GNA you can go here: http://www.nordicnaturals.com/images/pdfs/PatientBrochure.pdf

I have not necessarily noticed a difference in my ADD, but I have noticed my moods tend to be relatively stable. I have not previously heard of Omega 3/6 assisting with ADD, but I did read information regarding a study in patients suffering from depression where a large difference was documented between patients on and off the omega3/6 combination.

I am also intrigued by the claims of skin clearing being on omega 3 supplements. I wish I had taken note when I started taking this six months ago. I am not a fish eater, so I really started taking this supplement to get the wonderful nutrients fish provide. After doing more research about the company, I became very impressed with their approach to fishing and manufacturing. They even have a line of omega supplements for pets! I hope someone finds this information useful.

I think there are two kinds of omega acids the 6 and the 3. One is from fish and one is from flax I forget which is which. You need both, ideally in a specific ratio, and both are supposed to help with ADD related symptoms, memory, attention etc.

The ground flax seeds are supposed to be pretty palatable, I have seen where you sprinkle it on yogurt or ice cream, mix it in with cereal or juice, or use it in baking as a substitute for some of the reciepe's flour.
1-the biggest impact in my life was starting on ritalin about 5 years ago. I normally take 10 mg twice a day. I have ADD.I am 47. It has been great...

2- The second biggest impact in my life and my ADD, has been a nutritional change. I took a class at a medical- dental conference, then read a book called "fats that heal, fats that kill" by Udo Erasmus PhD. get it. This is my bible...so to speak.

I will try to be brief. As I could talk for hours on this subject. This subject of nutrition has held my interest(as an ADD), that I have studied it non stop for several months

3- Omega 3 to be any good needs to be fresh. You can get it from oily fish(salmon ,trout,etc) or from FRESH ground flaxseed. Its also in FRESH almonds,never cooked seeds. The fish oil at wal-mart is rancid, its not fresh.So are other non fresh sources.Fish oil would need to be USP Grade and fresh...expensive.

4- I take 1-2 tablespoons of fresh ground flax per day. You can buy the whole seeds at Target grocery,($4 a pound...cheap), then grind in a coffee mill, put in the fridge in a light proof bag and they are fresh for several weeks.It tastes like wheatgerm. I eat it by the spoonful and drink some water,if I am in a hurry. Or I sprinkle it on my green beans,salad,oatmeal,etc.
I believe the WHO( world health organization) recommends 1 tblespoon per day for all americans as a min.its in his book

You can also by a superior flax oil blend called "Udo's Choice Blend Oil" in a health food store.Flora 1800 446 2110. It's sold in refrigerated condition/preserved and not rancid. You can get it at a health food store. This blend has primrose oil which contains GLA oil,which flax oil lacks, its needed for brain function in some people with a missing biochem enzyme.
More expensive than flax seed, but quite a but better. This will get you jump started.1 TBLspoon -2 times a day. Tastes just fine...because its fresh. Old oils tasted bad because they are old and spoiled(rancid).

5- I cut out all fast release carbs in my diet. No white bread,cake,cookies,no sucrose, no diet cola,no cola..it was hard yes...BUT oh so worth it!!!

6- I eat whole foods. which means nothing man made. I eat an orange instead of orange juice...the fiber stabilizes your glucose. I eat all kinds of fresh nuts as snacks.I eat at least 90 - 170 grams of lean protein a day, I eat 5 whole fruits and vegatables a day...fiber...fiber.... lowers blood fat.

7- I have INCREASED my fat in my diet, with good fat. Good fats are virgin olive oil,flax oil,oily fish,UDO's Oil Blend,free range eggs,wild deer,grass fed buffalo,...never canola,corn oil,wesson,that is processed on the shelf.Bad or kiling fats are margarine,heated fats,fried fats,bacon fat,cheap white eggs from production,bottled clear oils, etc....read udo's book or go to his web site udoerasmus.com.... killing fats are created through heating and manufacturing methods that removes the vitamins in the oil and twists the molecular structure

8 - what did i get out of this?

A- better moods, I didnt think i was bad, but I am just better.more positive

B- Weight loss- 25 pounds

C- better skin- my blackheads on my nose just went away...been there since junior in high school

D-skin is more glossy...but not oily,dryness of elbows,and shins is gone. even with the winter dryness...

E- ritalin is more effective- 5 mg of ritalin feels like 10mg. I get more of a boost. My first 4 years of ritalin use I took like clockwork. I never missed a dose, because I looked forward to taking it...now I am doing so well..that I sometimes just skip a dose. ...but if I do sleep is a little worse...so I then have been trying melatonin..not bad...i am still learning

f- daily i am needing less ritalin...i now take about 15 mgs day,verses the 20 for the last 4 plus years


g- blood pressure,cholesterol,bad fats, is way down. Stomach pain is gone and I am off the purple pill type of meds(nexium,protonix,tagamet,etc) acid pump blockers

I-for menus...similar to what I eat... do a search " Joe Dillon 7 nutrition " and read "fats that heal and fats that kill"...book is 400 pages...it is a must read, whether you have ADD OR NOT. 70% of us will die of heart disease, read his book and you will learn how to not get heart dieseas and how to reverse it.

good luck my fellow ADD'ers

This thread is interesting but I would like to know more about the poll participants. How long did they try the omega oils (I have read theat it takes at least 3 months to be fully effective) and did they follow the Oxford Durham trial of 7 to 1 ratio for EPA to DHA?

Blmoretti, I have had my son on the 7 to 1 ratio omegas, I think for maybe 6 weeks, and he was starting to notice some focus and attention during school. The biggest difference we noticed was his mood was very stable; more aggreable and compliant, moreso pleasant. Wierd for a 13-year-old boy! We started him on the Dore program, and they requested he stop as the oils coat the constructing pathways. I think it is something that may show some real promise.

On a side note, we had available locally a 5 to 1 ratio, that worked as well for us.

i haven't tried omega 3 myself yet, but i do eat fish regurally
according to this study, flaxseed aint that good to provide omega3, vegans often have a omega 3 defiency, try to eat some fish or take fish oil or cod liver oil (altough don't overdose on the vitamine A!

Gerster H.

Vitamin Research Department, F. Hoffman-Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland.

A diet including 2-3 portions of fatty fish per week, which corresponds to the intake of 1.25 g EPA (20:5n-3) + DHA (22:6n-3) per day, has been officially recommended on the basis of epidemiological findings showing a beneficial role of these n-3 long-chain PUFA in the prevention of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. The parent fatty acid ALA (18:3n-3), found in vegetable oils such as flaxseed or rapeseed oil, is used by the human organism partly as a source of energy, partly as a precursor of the metabolites, but the degree of conversion appears to be unreliable and restricted. More specifically, most studies in humans have shown that whereas a certain, though restricted, conversion of high doses of ALA to EPA occurs, conversion to DHA is severely restricted. The use of ALA labelled with radioisotopes suggested that with a background diet high in saturated fat conversion to long-chain metabolites is approximately 6% for EPA and 3.8% for DHA. With a diet rich in n-6 PUFA, conversion is reduced by 40 to 50%. It is thus reasonable to observe an n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio not exceeding 4-6. Restricted conversion to DHA may be critical since evidence has been increasing that this long-chain metabolite has an autonomous function, e.g. in the brain, retina and spermatozoa where it is the most prominent fatty acid. In neonates deficiency is associated with visual impairment, abnormalities in the electroretinogram and delayed cognitive development. In adults the potential role of DHA in neurological function still needs to be investigated in depth. Regarding cardiovascular risk factors DHA has been shown to reduce triglyceride concentrations. These findings indicate that future attention will have to focus on the adequate provision of DHA which can reliably be achieved only with the supply of the preformed long-chain metabolite.
heart dieseas and how to reverse it.you cannot reverse hearth desease! you can only stop te damage you are doing to your vains

also, very important! take extra vitamin D
http://www.vitamindcouncil.com/

a lot of ppl have a vitamine d defiency, and it takes a while to fix that
this site has collected lots of information on vitamine d, and what deseases it could prevent

Im taking the liquid form of Carlsons brand fish oil (the actual oil). I thought it would have a disgusting taste/texture but it doesnt really...all i can detect is a vague lemon taste. Anyway, the reason i chose this brand is that it has the highest level of DHA/EPA per serving and 100 servings per bottle.


500mg DHA per serving
800mg EPA per serving

When my 10-years old daughter was diagnosed with ADD, i researched all alternatives to medications, which I knew I would NEVER giver her. She has been doing biofeedback twice a week for the past 5 months and is now taking Omega-3 EFA twice a day. She has made a significant improvement. I would suggest this combination for all children with ADD so that parents would not have to drug their children.

When my 10-years old daughter was diagnosed with ADD, i researched all alternatives to medications, which I knew I would NEVER giver her. She has been doing biofeedback twice a week for the past 5 months and is now taking Omega-3 EFA twice a day. She has made a significant improvement. I would suggest this combination for all children with ADD so that parents would not have to drug their children.

Your timing is just too ironic. We have another poster who has been complaining about the "anti meds" brigade. Some people do choose to use meds and have found them very helpful. Some people choose to try alternatives and have found them helpful. Of course some people have had problems with meds or found that alternative therapies have not helped them.

I think most parents who choose to try giving their child drugs to help them cope with a neurological disorder give it some serious thought, and many give their child 'medication vacations', while others find that in time the child learns enough coping skills to no longer need the meds.

There is really no need to imply that parents who do choose to give meds to their children are being bad parents.


For the record - I chose to go with alternatives for myself, and we are looking for alternatives for my grandchildren. The Omega 3 has made a real difference for me, but so far has not been as helpful for my 10-year old granddaughter.