Can fish oil control depression?

The omega 3 depression research consists of clinical trials with patients suffering from bi-polar disorder, post-partum depression and mild to moderate depression. The omega 3 fatty acids DHA and EPA are generally used together in these studies, but sometimes only one or the other is used. These trials and studies attempt to answer the question: can fish oil control depression? Omega 3 depression researchers use fish oil specifically because it is the best and most common source of DHA and EPA.

Omega 3 research on depression varies in methodology. One study at the University Of Arizona College Of Medicine assessed the effectiveness of omega 3 dosages ranging from a half gram per day to 2.8 grams per day on women suffering from post-partum depression. The sample size was small and no placebo group was used. Doctors used two tests to measure degree of depression before and after omega 3 supplementation. The before and after results of this omega 3 depression study showed a decrease of 48-51% in degree of depression.

The answer to the question: can fish oil control depression, based on this study, was that “results support further study of omega 3 fatty acids as a treatment for post-partum depression”.

An omega 3 depression study in London concluded that EPA was an effective treatment for bi-polar disorder. Because of the link between depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, the effectiveness of omega 3’s in treating this syndrome has been studied and concluded that patients responded favorably.

Another omega 3 depression study was actually a study that involved studying other studes (sounds confusing, but this is actually often done), and concluded that it is likely that low levels of omega 3 fatty acids in the bloodstream are linked and may, in some cases, be the cause of depression. Can fish oil control depression? Very possibly.

In general, many studies report an improvement in symptoms related to depression after supplementation of omega 3 fatty acids.

Keep in mind, no one is suggesting that anyone stop taking their anti-depressant medications. Only that adding a dietary supplement of omega 3 fish oil may help relieve some symptoms, may improve mood.

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