Omega 3 effects on sleep and body composition in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized placebo-controlled trial

Sleep disturbances and disruptions in body composition, encompassing factors like fat mass, and lean body mass are common challenges in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite numerous studies in this field, research has not yet yielded clear and definitive results. In this randomized clinical trial, we investigated the effects of omega-3 supplementation (360 mg DHA and 720 mg EPA) in comparison to placebo (edible paraffin) on sleep-related factors and body composition in a population of 59 boys aged 7–15 (Mean = 9.9, S.D.= 2.1) on autism spectrum disorder for 8 weeks. The diagnoses of ASD were established by an experienced psychiatrist using the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Omega-3 supplementation led to a significant increase in the mean change in sleep duration on 5 non-holiday days by 9.13 min (P = .02; Z = −2.2) and a corresponding decrease in the mean change in Protein percent of the omega-3 group by 1.7 % (p = .03; T = 2.14) compared with the placebo group after the intervention. However, no significant changes were observed in other factors related to sleep. Furthermore, the intervention group exhibited alterations in macronutrient intake in comparison to the placebo group, showing a 3.4 % increase in carbohydrate percentage (p = .07; [−.37 to 7.27]). Despite these changes, no significant differences in body composition measures were noted between the two groups following the intervention. Omega-3 supplementation improves sleep duration in ASD. Future research should consider larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods to further explore the potential benefits of omega-3 supplementation in improving sleep and body composition outcomes in individuals with ASD.