Omegas 3 and 6 in pregnancy may be related to ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ), characterized by distraction, agitation and impulsivity, usually affects children in the full stage of development and can bring complications throughout life.

New research published in the journal The Pediatrics suggests that the appearance of these disorders in the child may be related to the mother’s diet.

This is because, according to the study, the consumption of foods that have two polyunsaturated fatty acids in their composition during pregnancy was associated with a greater risk of children developing ADHD at 7 years of age .

These are omega 6 and omega 3, both considered important nutrients for the functioning of the body, but which, if consumed in an unbalanced way by pregnant women, can affect the neurological development of children.

Omega-6 and omega-3

Before we talk about how this relationship happens, it is also important to know what these substances are and where they act.

Omega 3 and omega 6 acids, considered essential fatty acids, act in different functions of the body. They are used to give energy and to aid in blood clotting and inflammation processes.

But it is not because they are important for the body that it is necessary to eat in large quantities, it is recommended to maintain a balance.

Omega 6 is generally found in sunflower, corn and olive oil, while omega 3 is found in fish, such as salmon and tuna.

How can acids affect the child?

Omegas 3 and 6 also play an important role in the formation of the child’s central nervous system during pregnancy.

For the study, the researchers looked at samples of the umbilical cord, in addition to a questionnaire that was completed by the mothers of 600 children who had at least 6 symptoms of ADHD.

It was possible to see that children of mothers who maintained high consumption of nutrients during pregnancy and also had their highest concentration in the umbilical cord were more likely to have any symptoms related to ADHD.


The research, cited in the news, indicates that feeding during pregnancy can have major impacts on the health and development of children.

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