Fatty Acid Supplementation in Children With ASD (Study 2)

Fatty Acid Supplements Alter Biological Signatures and Behavior in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

The objective of the protocol is to test the impact of Omega 3-6 on pre-specified biological signatures (IL-1β, IL-2, and IFNγ) and to correlate changes in the biological signatures with changes in ASD symptoms.

Children with ASD suffer from both mental and physical symptoms that affect quality of life and severely disrupt family well-being. The objective of the protocol is to test the impact of Omega 3-6 on pre-specified biological signatures (IL-1β, IL-2, and IFNγ) and to correlate changes in the biological signatures with changes in ASD symptoms. Fatty acid supplements are natural products with anti-inflammatory properties often used for treatment of ASD symptoms, but the efficacy remains unproven.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 2-6 years old
• ASD diagnosis at Nationwide Children's Hospital within the prior 6 months
• English is primary language

Exclusion Criteria:

• Fatty acid supplementation in the past 6 months
• Consumes fatty fish more than 3 times per week
• Still breastfeeding or formula feeding
• Bleeding disorder
• Quadriparesis
• Deafness
• Blindness
• Seizure disorder diagnosis
• Autoimmune disorder including Type 1 Diabetes, Fragile X, Rett, Angelman Syndromes, Tuberous Sclerosis
• Feeding problems precluding consumption of the supplement
• Ingredient allergy (canola, fish, or borage seed)
• Planned surgeries scheduled within the time frame of trial participation