Relevance of ω-6 GLA Added to ω-3 PUFAs Supplements for ADHD: A Narrative Review

Nutrients. 2022 Aug 10;14(16):3273. doi: 10.3390/nu14163273.

Abstract

The use of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and developmental disorders has been gaining interest with preparations containing different dosages and combinations. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an ω-6 fatty acid of emerging interest with potential roles as an adjuvant anti-inflammatory agent that could be used with ω-3 PUFAs in the treatment of ADHD and associated symptoms. A narrative review was undertaken to examine the potential role(s) of the ω-6 fatty acid GLA. PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were searched to examine the potential role(s) of the ω-6 fatty acid GLA as (1) an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, (2) a synergistic nutrient when combined with ω-3 PUFAs, and (3) a potential etiological factor in ADHD and its treatment. The results show that GLA exerts anti-inflammatory effects by increasing dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid in immune cells. ω-3 PUFAs, such as EPA and DHA, are often co-administered with GLA because these ω-3 PUFAs may prevent the accumulation of serum arachidonic acid in response to GLA administration without limiting the storage of DGLA in immune cells. The administration of ω-3 PUFAs alone might not be sufficient to effectively treat patients with ADHD and developmental disorders. Overall studies point towards a combination of EPA and DHA with GLA in a 9:3:1 ratio appearing to be associated with ADHD symptom improvement. A combination of PUFAs may lead to better outcomes.

Keywords: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); brain function; brain structure; cognition; developmental; difference; gamma-linolenic acid (GLA); hyperactivity; neuro-immune; neuroinflammatory; oxidative stress; wellbeing; ω-3 PUFAs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / drug therapy
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-6
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated
  • Humans

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-6
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated

Grants and funding

The research submission process and open access fees were sponsored by Springfield Nutraceuticals Belgium BV.