Depression is a chronic mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, anger and loss of interest in life. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is a common illness that affects 18 million Americans every year. If you suffer from depression, your doctor may prescribe antidepressant drugs and you may also require counseling. Some dietary supplements, including omega-3 fatty acids, may help to relieve symptoms, although evidence is mixed. Get advice from your doctor before taking any supplements.
Sources and Dosing
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. There two main types of omega-3s, known as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, both of which are found in oily fish like salmon, tuna and herring. Fish oil supplements are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, while flaxseed and linseed oil contain small quantities. UMMC recommends taking 3g to 9 g daily to relieve symptoms, but this is only a guideline, so ask your doctor how much you should use.
Effectiveness
An analysis of data from 19 clinical trials involving omega-3 acids, published in the July 2010 issue of "Expert Reviews of Neurotherapeutics," found that 13 studies showed a positive link between omega-3 and depression, while six studies did not identify a relationship between the two. The articles authors, D.M. Arujo Rocha et al., conclude that further studies prove necessary to clarify the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of depression. A study by E.H. Clayton published in the August 2009 issue of the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that omega-3 supplementation decreased symptoms of depression in patients with bipolar disorder.
Side Effects
Taking a fish oil supplement as a means of obtaining omega-3 fatty acids is likely safe, according to MedlinePlus. However side effects may include heartburn, loose stools, nausea, rash and nosebleeds. Taking more than 3g daily may be unsafe as high doses can stop the blood from clotting and weaken the immune system. MedlinePlus adds that eating large quantities of fish may also be unsafe as it may contain toxic heavy metals.
Contraindications
Fish oil is contraindicated in a number of conditions including liver disease, HIV, diabetes, hypertension and familial adenomatous polyposis. Paradoxically, MedlinePlus notes that while fish oil may be effective treatment for depression, it may actually increase symptoms in some people. Fish oil may interact with other drugs that you may be taking including the birth control pill and drugs for high blood pressure.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Omega-3
- PubMed.gov: What is the Effectiveness of the use of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Omega-3 in the Treatment of Depression?; D.M. Arujo Rocha et al.; 2010
- PubMed.gov: Reduced Mania and Depression in Juvenile Bipolar Disorder Associated with Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation; E.H. Clayton et al.; 2009
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
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