Omega 3 Fatty Acid-Rich Nutraceuticals: Current Trends and Future Perspective of Managing Autism Spectrum Disorder
Keywords:
Omega 3 fatty acids, Nutraceuticals, Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Polyunsaturated fatty acids, Neurodevelopment, NeuroinflammationAbstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviours, with a multifactorial aetiology involving genetic, environmental and neurological factors. The global prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder is maximum in Europe and Western Pacific countries (250 to 263 per 10000 population) compared to the Eastern Mediterranean countries (153 per 10000 population) has risen, reflecting variations in dietary practices, since the healthcare resources are comparatively better in the Europe and Western Pacific countries. Recently it has been highlighted that maternal consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids helps in child's brain development, microglial activity and neuroinflammatory pathways. It is believed that polyunsat-urated fatty acids metabolism is aberrant or insufficient in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, which results in increased oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokine production and imbalance in neurotransmitter synthesis and activity. These essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid and docosah-exaenoic acid, are vital for brain function and inflammation modulation. Recent research suggests that Omega-3 supplementation, particularly docosahexaenoic acid, may improve neurodevelopmental processes and alleviate core Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms. Evidence from clinical trials, animal models and case studies indicates that Omega-3s may enhance social communication and reduce repetitive behaviours, underscoring their potential as a complementary therapeutic approach. In various clinical trials and case studies, Omega-3 fatty acid-rich nutraceuticals, particularly fish oil or fish capsules containing eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, have been administered to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The typical dosages range from 1.5 to 3 grams per day, with treatment durations spanning from 6 weeks to over 8 months. Evidence from these studies suggests that Omega-3 supplem-entation may enhance social communication, reduce repetitive behaviours and serve as a promising adjunct to conventional Autism Spectrum Disorder therapies. This review aims to analyse all the recent case studies as well as human clinical trials in order to highlight the relationship between omega 3 fatty acids-rich nutraceuticals and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The study would conclude whether in addition to normal medical therapy and psychological interventions the omega 3 fatty acid-rich nutraceuticals have any role in controlling the Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms or not. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential benefits and limitations of Omega-3 fatty acids in the management of Autism Spectrum Disorder and suggest directions for future research.
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