Evidence supporting the use of: Fatty acids
For the health condition: Autism

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Fatty acids, particularly omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been investigated as potential interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The scientific rationale stems from the role of omega-3 fatty acids in brain development, neurotransmission, and anti-inflammatory processes. Several small randomized controlled trials have explored supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in children with autism, with some suggesting mild improvements in hyperactivity, stereotypy, and social skills. However, the results are inconsistent and effect sizes are generally modest or non-significant. A 2011 Cochrane review concluded that there is insufficient evidence to recommend omega-3 supplementation for children with ASD, citing methodological limitations and heterogeneity among studies. More recent meta-analyses (e.g., Horvath et al., 2017; Mazahery et al., 2017) similarly indicate that while omega-3 fatty acids are generally safe, the overall benefit for core autism symptoms is minimal or uncertain. Current clinical guidelines do not recommend fatty acids as a primary or standard treatment for autism. In summary, the use of fatty acids for autism is based on plausible biological mechanisms and some preliminary research, but robust scientific validation is lacking. The evidence supporting their effectiveness remains limited, and further high-quality research is needed to clarify their potential role in ASD management.

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