Omega-3 DHA and Children’s Learning and Behaviour
Our children are suffering with learning, attention abilities and reading consequences simply because the modern diet is lacking Omega-3 fatty acids intake.
A growing body of research shows that Omega-3 fatty acids—particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)—are essential for children’s brain development, learning, and behaviour. DHA is a major structural component of the brain and plays a critical role in neuron function, memory formation, attention, and emotional regulation.
Modern diets are often low in Omega-3 and high in Omega-6 fatty acids, largely due to increased consumption of seed oils that are common ingredients in packaged food. This imbalance can reduce DHA levels in brain tissue and may contribute to learning difficulties and behavioural challenges in children, even those who are otherwise healthy.
Studies in school-aged children consistently show that lower blood levels of DHA are associated with poorer reading ability, weaker working memory, and higher levels of behavioural problems. On the other hand, higher DHA levels are linked to better academic performance and improved behaviour at home and in the classroom.
How DHA Supports Learning and Behaviour
Research suggests that children taking DHA can experience:
- Improved learning, memory and processing speed
• Better attention and focus
• Enhanced reading and spelling skills
• Fewer behavioural problems, including reduced impulsivity and aggression
In a large study of nearly 500 schoolchildren conducted at the University of Oxford, higher DHA levels were associated with better reading and memory performance, as well as fewer behaviour problems as rated by both parents and teachers. Supplementation with DHA was shown to improve reading progress and behaviour in children who were struggling academically.
DHA and Neurodevelopmental and Learning Conditions
Research has shown that children with certain neurodevelopmental issues often have lower levels of DHA and other Omega-3 fatty acids. Because DHA plays a central role in brain structure, signalling and behavioural regulation, improving DHA status may help support cognitive function, attention, and behaviour children with the following conditions:
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)
Children with ADHD commonly have lower levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in their cell membranes. Research shows that supplementing with DHA can improve attention, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, and support emotional regulation. Clinical trials have also demonstrated improvements in parent-rated ADHD-type behaviours and reading performance, particularly in children who are underperforming at school.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Many children with ASD have been found to have low DHA and total Omega-3 levels. Research suggests that supplementation with DHA and EPA may help reduce hyperactivity, repetitive behaviours, and emotional dysregulation in some children with autism. Reviews of controlled trials indicate that Omega-3s may provide meaningful behavioural support for children on the autism spectrum.
Developmental Dyslexia
Children with developmental dyslexia frequently show deficiencies in DHA. Studies have found that lower DHA levels are associated with greater difficulties in reading, spelling, and auditory working memory. Supplementing with DHA may support these cognitive functions and contribute to improved learning outcomes.
Other Developmental Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorder – PDD)
Children with PDD often exhibit significant Omega-3 deficiencies. Research indicates that Omega-3 supplementation is associated with improvements in behaviour, attention, and cognitive performance in this group, suggesting a supportive role for DHA in broader developmental challenges.
The Importance of DHA Throughout Childhood
DHA is well known for its importance during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and infancy, particularly for early brain and visual development. Increasing evidence now shows that its benefits extend well into early and middle childhood, when learning demands increase and attention and behavioural regulation become critical.
While early DHA deficiency may have lasting effects on brain function, research suggests that targeted dietary intake and supplementation can lead to measurable improvements. With the availability of high-quality DHA rich algae oil, supporting children’s cognitive, learning, and behavioural health through Omega-3 intake is both achievable and evidence-based.
