Omega-3 essential fatty acids are found in various plants and fish. Some sources of omega 3s include flax seeds, canola oil, green leafy vegetables, walnuts, and fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines. Omega 3s found in fish consist of biologically active EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are a precursor to beneficial prostaglandins. Omega 3s found in plants consist of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which requires conversion into EPA and DHA. Omega 3s have been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and certain cancers and reduce inflammation. Now research reports that a diet deficient in omega 3s may increase the risk of mood disorders.
The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, reviewed studies on omega 3 fatty acids and its role as a cause and natural treatment of mood disorders. Studies suggest an association between low fish intake and higher rates of mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. Other studies indicate that omega 3 supplementation may offer therapeutic benefits, including mood-stabilizing and antidepressant effects.
However, it remains unclear if omega 3 supplementation alone has antidepressant effects or whether it should augment antidepressant drugs. Furthermore, more studies need to be done to determine which omega 3 fatty acid (EPA or DHA) has the greatest benefit and in what dose. The study authors believe that changes in the western diet over the past 150 years have decreased omega 3 levels in the body.
"Deficits in omega-3 fatty acids have been identified as a contributing factor to mood disorders and offer a potential rational treatment approach," the study authors write. "This review identifies a number of hypotheses and studies for consideration. In particular, the authors argue for studies clarifying the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation for unipolar and bipolar depressive disorders, both as individual and augmentation treatment strategies, and for studies pursuing which omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is likely to provide the greatest benefit. "
REFERENCES:
1. Parker G et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Mood Disorders. Amer J Psych 2006 Jun;163(6):969-978.
2. Unhealthy change in Western diet. Black Dog Institute News Release, June 22, 2006:
http://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/media/newsreleases/documents/
Omega-3papernewsrelease.pdf
Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 12, 2006 02:31 PM
