The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Neuroinflammation in Autism

A growing body of research points to neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, due to oxidative stress in conjunction with genetic predisposition, as just some of the influences seen in the expression of symptoms seen in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).1 Neuroinflammation, specifically, has been implicated as a trigger for a number of neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD, ASD, Schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Epilepsy, and Dementia.2 


Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are well known for their ability to resolve inflammation and protect cellular membranes. However, when it comes to brain health, DHA is king due to its ability to cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) and perform as an essential component to the phospholipid membrane of the brain cells. 

DHA is highly concentrated in the brain, particularly in the neural synapses, promoting healthy neuronal function and maintaining the structural integrity of cellular membranes. A meta-analysis found that children with ASD showed reduced blood levels of both omega-3 fatty acids, and in studies with younger children the DHA levels were lower than the EPA levels.3 This analysis also found that supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids can potentially improve some of the symptoms related to ASD, such as social interaction, repetitive and restrictive behaviors.3


There are a number of mechanisms thought to influence the expression of ASD symptoms and neuroinflammation is just one of these mechanisms. High levels of numerous inflammatory markers (cytokines, NF-kB, PGE2, etc.) have been noted in individuals with ASD and a reduction in these markers was seen with omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.3,4 One study found only a small benefit to omega-3s, but determined that they are helpful as a complement to other therapies.4 


As we can see, the neuroprotective effects of omega-3 fatty acids are multifocal: they provide structural integrity to the membrane of brain cells, promote neuronal plasticity and healthy cell signaling, counter neuroinflammation, support blood brain barrier integrity, increase cell membrane fluidity, and play a role in modulating neurotransmitter activity.5 


To learn more about how omega-3 fatty acids play a role in neurotransmitter activity, click here.

Almost all nutrition therapy interventions are dependent on the synergistic interactions of nutrients. This is why food is the preferred intervention of choice for nutritionists. However, when faced with eating challenges due to sensory issues supplements may be recommended. When taking supplements for a particular condition it is important to remember that these nutrients still need other nutrients to do their best work. We have seen this in studies where omega-3 fatty acids are more effective when combined with omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.4,5


Furthermore, autism has been associated with a variety of issues like genetics, mitochondrial dysfunction, issues with neurotransmitters, in addition to neuroinflammation. Therefore, when protecting against neuroinflammmation, with omega-3 fatty acids, it is important to also consider all aspects of the condition and their nutritional interventions for the best results! 


Animal Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Salmon

Mackerel

Herring

Sardines

Rainbow Trout

Oysters

Sea Bass

Kelp

Cod Liver Oil 

(think ocean!)

Omega-3 enriched eggs

Grass-fed meats and dairy


Non-Animal Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Chia Seeds

Flax Seeds

Walnuts

Hemp Seeds

Spinach

Brussels Sprouts

Purslane (Yep! Pigweed - it’s edible and highly nutritious)


But what do you do if you have a picky eater? 

There are a variety of supplements to try:

  • Oils/softgels: cod liver oil, krill oil, fish oil

  • Gummies: fish oil, algae based

  • Powders: algae based

Just keep in mind that it may take some time and patience with finding the right supplement that your child can tolerate.

References

1. Pacheva L. and Ivanov I. Targeted Biomedical Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Current Pharmaceutical Design (2019) 25: 4430. https://doi.org/10.2174/1381612825666191205091312

2. Eissa N, Sadeq A, Sasse A, Sadek B. Role of Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Emergence of Brain Histaminergic System. Lessons Also for BPSD?. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:886. Published 2020 Jun 16. doi:10.3389/fphar.2020.00886

3. Mazahery H, Stonehouse W, Delshad M, et al. Relationship between Long Chain n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Case-Control and Randomised Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2017;9(2):155. Published 2017 Feb 19. doi:10.3390/nu9020155

4. Agostoni C, Nobile M, Ciappolino V, et al. The Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Developmental Psychopathology: A Systematic Review on Early Psychosis, Autism, and ADHD. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(12):2608. Published 2017 Dec 4. doi:10.3390/ijms18122608

5. Sinn N, Milte C, Howe PR. Oiling the brain: a review of randomized controlled trials of omega-3 fatty acids in psychopathology across the lifespan. Nutrients. 2010;2(2):128-170. doi:10.3390/nu2020128




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