Dyslexia may be caused by a fatty acid deficiency. Stordy (1995 and 1997) proposes that fatty acid treatment may help in the management of dyslexia. She first observed an apparent association between breastfeeding (and its duration) in relation to the severity of dyslexia, as well as poor night vision in dyslexic individuals. She therefore tested dyslexic adults and found they showed impaired dark adaptation, but this visual problem normalised after just 4 weeks of supplementation with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. The role of omega-3 fatty acids in visual function is well recognised, and the evidence for visual problems in dyslexia is now substantial. 'Fatty acid deficiency signs' include excessive thirst, frequent urination, or rough, dry patches on the skin especially if this is 'bumpy' in appearance and feel (this is 'follicular keratosis', and is usually most noticeable on upper arms and legs). More minor indicators include dull or dry hair, tendencies to dandruff, and soft or brittle nails. These signs are more common in individuals with ADHD or dyslexia than they are in the general population, and their presence - while not definitive - might suggest a positive response to supplementation.

The details of this approach can be found in the following books: Fats that heal, fats that kill by Udo Erasmus (1996), Smart fats by Michael Schmidt (1997), The LCP Solution - the remarkable nutritional treatment for ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia by Jacqueline Stordy and Malcolm Nicholl (2000)

. The basic biochemistry behind the fatty acid theory is as follows: For signals to enter a neuron, they need to pass through the walls that surround them. These walls, known as cell membranes, consist almost entirely of fats. About 20% are essential fatty acids like Omega 3s. Embedded in brain cell membranes are structures called ion channels that open to allow the flow of electrical signals into the cell or close to prevent the flow. They perform this function by changing their shape.