"behavior" news and stories

The other day, Andrew posted on a BBC story about UK schools considering using Omega-3 supplements to improve students' behavior and performance. The BBC article cites a year old study, and now The Daily Mail reports on more recent findings that show fish oil to be more effective than Ritalin in treating children with ADHD. Groups of seven- to 12-year-olds were given six capsules of fish oil daily over the course of several months. By the end of a seven month period, researchers found that nearly half of the group showed better concentration and performance in school. Researchers also compared the results to studies done with Ritalin and Concerta and found fish oils to be more effective, the Daily Mail reported. The results of the study are to be published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.

Research from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center suggests that levels of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, commonly found in fish, may have effects on depression levels, personality and behavior. A recent study examined the blood levels of omega-3s in 106 healthy volunteers and found that those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids were more likely to be impulsive, have a negative outlook and report mild or moderate depression. The results were based on "three accepted tests for depression, impulsiveness and personality," according to a UPMC press release. The release also reminds that the American Heart Association recommends two servings of fish per week.