Did you know that?

Deficiencies in highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) of Omega 3 and Omega 6 series contribute to the predisposition and developmental expression of Dyslexia, ADHD and Dyspraxia.

That is the opinion of Dr Alexandra Richardson D.Phil. Unfortunately in modern medicine, treatment for these conditions are managed by the work of behavioural approaches or medication.

Essential Fatty Acid Defficiencies

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms you could be suffering from deficiencies in Essential Fatty Acids (EFA)

• Concentration problems
• Mood swings
• Excessive Stress
• Sleep disorders (difficulty getting to sleep or waking up in the morning)
• Exorbitant Thirst
• Excessive urination
• Dry Skin or skin disorders

These are characteristics that can exhibited by sufferers of Dyslexia , Dyspraxia and ADHD and it is believed that up to 20% of the population suffers from either Dyslexia or Dyspraxia.

60% improvement for those taking Omega 3 \ Omega 6 supplements

In 2001, a trial was carried out in Durham of 117 school children suffering from learning difficulties like Dyslexia and Dyspraxia. The trial was carried out over a three month period where children took a dosage of Omega 3 and Omega 6 3 times per day. 50% of the children received a placebo.

Behaviour was then assessed using the Conners’ Teacher Rated scales. Reading and spelling was assessed using the Weschler Objective reading dimensions or word test. Significant improvements were seen to be achieved in the children that took the Omega 3\Omega 6 supplement over the children that did not. The reading age for children that took the supplements increased by 9.5 months as opposed to 3.3 months for those receiving the Placebo. For spelling age, the supplement takers increased spelling age by 6.6 as opposed to 1.2 for those taking the placebo.

Getting the right blend of Omega 3 & 6 in Supplements

While there are plenty of Omega rich foods out there such as flax seeds, walnuts and fish, we don’t always have the time to ensure that we eat the correct balance of these Omega 3 & 6 supplements for optimal brain function and development.

Therefore the best is to rely on supplements. Here is a review of some of the most popular kinds

Krill Oil

Krill oil is oil is made from tiny crustaceans that live in the ocean. They are typically less than 2.25 inches (6 cm) long. Krill is high in omega 3 fatty acids.

Advantages:

• Sustainable food unlike fish forms the largest Biomass in the world.
• More easily absorbed than  fish oil.
• Contains antioxidant that prevents perishing
• Long chain Omega 3 meaning body does not have to convert from short chain

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than fish oil

Udo’s Choice Ultimate Organic Oil Blend

Dr Udo Erasmus is one of the leading authorities on the impact of Omega Oils on Health. This Organic and Vegan oil blend is reported to deliver the optimum ratio of Omega 3, 6 & 9 in a 2:1:1 ratio. It is the leading nutritional oil blend in the Uk and recommended by both Gillian McKeith and Patrick Holford.

Advantages:

• Organic
• Vegan
• Proven
• Optimum Ratio of Omega 3,6 & 9 in 2:1:1 ratio
• Proven results in improving athletic performance

Disadvantages:

• Short chain (ALA) meaning body has to convert to long chain before it is used.

Flax Seed Oil

Flax seed oil is manufactured from the seeds of the flax plant. Flax seed oil is by far the cheapest of the Omega oils. It has the advantage of being Vegan if you are reluctant to eat fish products.

Advantages:

• Cheap
• Vegan

Disadvantages:

• Does not have optimal balance of Omega 3 to 6
• Short chain (ALA) meaning body has to convert to long chain before it is used.

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