The Effectiveness of Omega-3 Supplements in Reducing Schoolchildren with Reactive and Proactive Aggression: A Longitudinal Study

This study examined the effectiveness of omega-3 supplementation over 6 months in reducing behavioural problems in children with a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. One hundred and ninety-six local Hong Kong Chinese children (123 males and 73 females), aged from 8 to 17 (M = 11.84, SD = 2.54), were blinded and randomly assigned to either omega-3 supplemented drink condition (n = 100) or juice-based drink condition (placebo; n = 96). The subjects consumed one carton of 200-ml drink daily for 6 months and were assessed by parent-reported reactive and proactive aggression, and psychopathic traits at baseline, post treatment, and 6-month post treatment. Results from linear mixed model indicated that the Time × Drink interaction effects were significant for reactive aggression, proactive aggression and impulsivity, after controlling for age. Compared with the baseline measurement, the omega-3 supplemented drink condition showed a significant decline in impulsivity at post treatment and 6-month post treatment, and a significant reduction in both types of aggressive behaviours at 6-month post treatment. Results suggested that omega-3 supplementation was effective in reducing behaviour problems.