Omega-3 supplementation for Reducing Externalizing Behaviour problems in Typically Developing children and adolescents: A meta-analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Externalizing behaviour problems represent a leading cause for referrals to childhood mental health services and have widespread impacts on individuals, families and society. Omega-3 deficiency has been implicated with externalizing behaviours. Whether increasing omega-3 intake may can alleviate deficiency and thus improve EB in children and adolescents warrants investigation. Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to improve behavioural outcomes in neurodevelopmental disorders however consensus on whether this extends to a typically developing population remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation for reducing externalizing behaviour problems in typically developing children and adolescents across parent, teacher and self-rated measures. DESIGN: Three electronic databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials comparing omega-3 to a placebo for behavioural problems were included in this review. Risk of bias in included trials was assessed, and the results compared in metaanalyses. RESULTS: 12 Randomised controlled trials involving 2461 participants were included in the review. Standardised mean differences and associated 95% confidence intervals, p values, and heterogeneity statistics were calculated. Risk of bias analysis was conducted to determine the quality of the randomised controlled trials. No differences were observed in oppositional, anti-social and aggressive behaviours compared to control across parent, teacher and self-rated measures. No differences were also found for hyperactivity. The quality of trials varied. CONCLUSION: The evidence does not conclusively support or refute that omega-3 supplementation reduces externalizing behaviour problems in typically developing children and adolescents.