Relationship: Autism and DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Autism

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 1

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in brain development and function. Its use in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is based on the hypothesis that children with ASD may have altered fatty acid metabolism or deficiencies that contribute to neurological symptoms. Several small clinical trials and observational studies have investigated whether supplementation with DHA (often as part of a broader omega-3 regimen) can improve core symptoms of autism, such as social deficits, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of DHA for autism is weak. Most randomized controlled trials have found no significant benefit of DHA or omega-3 supplementation on the primary symptoms of ASD. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews (such as Bent et al., 2011; James et al., 2019) generally conclude that, while DHA is safe and well-tolerated, there is insufficient evidence to recommend its use specifically for autism treatment. Some studies report minor improvements in hyperactivity or stereotypy, but these results are inconsistent and often not statistically significant.

In summary, while the use of DHA for autism is driven by a plausible biological rationale and some preliminary studies, current scientific validation is minimal, and the overall quality of evidence is low. Therefore, DHA supplementation should not be considered a standard or evidence-based treatment for autism at this time.

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Autism

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)For the health condition: Autism

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Autism

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Autism