Omega-3 deficit linked to ADHD symptoms in Palestinian adolescents

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms are influenced by socioeconomic factors in regions affected by conflict and resource limitations, a new study focusing on non-Western populations has found. The study also revealed that lower omega-3 fatty acid intake is significantly associated with higher ADHD symptom scores in Palestinian adolescents, reflecting findings from other research conducted in Western countries.

ADHD likely affects more than 5% of children and early adolescents worldwide. Over several decades, neurologists have identified a strong link between ADHD symptoms and deficits in omega-3, which is essential for brain growth and overall cognitive functioning. As omega-3 can’t be produced by the body, it must be obtained through a diet rich in foods such as fish, nuts and seeds.

Most previous studies into the association between ADHD and omega-3 intake have focused on Western populations, with limited evidence from developing regions. They have also largely focused on younger children rather than early adolescents, whose dietary habits and behavioral patterns are still rapidly forming. This new research, published in the International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health, aims to address this gap.

Professor Omar Almahmoud and colleagues at Birzeit University, Ramallah, Palestine, conducted a survey of 211 early adolescents in Palestine, including 38 with ADHD. Participants’ omega-3 intake was assessed using a culturally-adapted Food Frequency Questionnaire, reflecting dietary patterns typical of Palestinian families.

The researchers also gathered data on socioeconomic factors, including participants’ age, gender, parental education and employment, and family income. This approach enabled them to explore the association within a culturally distinct and nutritionally under-researched population.

Even when these factors were taken into account, the survey’s results broadly reflected the findings of previous studies. “Lower omega-3 fatty acid intake was significantly associated with higher ADHD symptom scores,” Almahmoud said. “Adolescents with insufficient omega-3 consumption exhibited more attention-related and behavioral difficulties compared to their peers with adequate intake.”

The study also identified a key link between ADHD symptoms and socioeconomic disparities, which directly affected participants’ omega-3 intake. “These results highlight the importance of balanced nutrition—particularly omega-3 fatty acids—in supporting cognitive and behavioral health during early adolescence,” Almahmoud said.

Taken together, the findings suggest that public health interventions to improve omega-3 intake could offer a low-cost strategy to mitigate ADHD symptoms in school-aged children, both in Palestine and in other developing, conflict-affected regions.

Rather than relying solely on challenging or potentially controversial pharmacological treatments, such efforts could take the form of school-based nutrition programs, caregiver education and subsidies for omega-3–rich foods.