How Omega 3 Helps Depression

How Omega 3 Helps Depression
by Shehla Smith

that nations who had a higher rate of fish intake had lower levels of the incidence of
depression.

In 2003, another study was conducted regarding fish consumption and bipolar
disorder and they again found a strong link. Just this year, another study was
conducted regarding the effectiveness of fish oil omega 3 supplements in fighting the
symptoms of depression compared to prescription medications commonly used like
Prozac. They found out that supplements actually helped improve the symptoms of
depression. The study, however, does not mean that eating fish in large quantities
can have the same effect as supplements have higher concentrations of omega 3
compared to the omega 3 one gets from diet.

Aside from these studies, there are also several studies done on the connection
between omega 3 and postpartum depression. It was proven that women who took
omega 3 supplements while pregnant had a lesser chance of developing postpartum
depression after giving birth.

The reason why omega 3 is so effective in fighting depression is it acts the same way
as prescription drugs for depression do. Omega 3 helps depression by increasing the
levels of a neurotransmitter called serotonin. In one study one where omega 3 was
given to piglets, serotonin levels were twice as high in the frontal cortex of the brain,
the part responsible for controlling depression as well as impulsivity.

There are two main ingredients in fish oil that makes it valuable in depression. These
are DHA and EPA, two kinds of omega 3 fatty acids. When buying a fish oil
supplement, make sure that it contains both of these essential fatty acids. DHA
content should always be higher than EPA as it can be converted to EPA when
needed but never the other way around. A lot of brands contain more EPA because it
is cheaper to produce so it is best to avoid these.

Omega 3 helps depression and a lot of medical conditions. A high quality supplement
can help you achieve these benefits so be smart when choosing which brand to buy.

About The Author

Shehla Smith attributes her good health to her omega 3 intake. She believes in the
supplements and shares her personal experiences at . If
you want to know why Shehla thinks so highly of the supplement then please head
over to her website at for more information.

Did you know that omega 3 helps
depression? While omega 3 may not
yet be considered to be a treatment
for depression, many studies have
shown positive results regarding the
effects of omega 3 on depressed
patients.

The interest of scientists on the issue
of whether omega 3 helps depression
or not started in a study conducted in
1998 when data from a previous
study regarding the prevalence of
depression in ten nations was
correlated with the consumption of
fish in these populations. It turned out

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.