Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on offending behavior in repeat violent offenders: A randomized controlled trial feasibility study

Evidence suggests that certain behavioral problems, including a tendency towards impulsive-violence, might arise in part as a consequence of a potentially correctable, dietary imbalance of essential fatty acids in susceptible individuals. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of conducting a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) using omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in a community sample of impulsive, repeat-violent offenders. Behavioral measures of impulsivity, anger, depression, irritability and self-reported offending were examined. Participants were randomized to a 12 week placebocontrolled trial of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation. Eligible participants were recruited from the Newcastle Courthouse, New South Wales (Australia), reported a minimum of two prior violent offences, and scored highly on the 15-item Barratt Impulsiveness Scale. Forty-four individuals commenced the trial, with 22 completing the 12 week intervention. There was a statistically significant mean increase in Omega-3 Index among participants who received the intervention. At week 12, participants who self-reported offending in the past month had a significantly lower mean Omega-3 Index compared to those who reported no offending behavior. This study demonstrates that community-based individuals with histories of violent offending who self-reported reoffending within the past month had a lower mean Omega-3 Index compared to similar individuals who reported no offending behavior. This finding suggests diets of repeat violent offenders lacking important essential fatty acids may contribute to behavioral problems. Violent offender recruitment, adherence and techniques for improving lost to follow up are discussed. An adequately powered RCT of this intervention is warranted