Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polysaturated fatty acids that contribute to brain function and help to prevent heart disease. There is also some evidence to support its impact on other physical conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes and certain types of cancer. Research concerning the impact of omega-3 on mental health disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, have been mixed, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Types
Omega-3 contains 2 main types of fish oil, docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA. DHA is contained in neuronal membranes and affects the activity of receptors in your brain. EPA levels influence neuron activity. According to a literature review in 2005 and published in the journal "Drugs," increased levels of omega-3 in schizophrenic patients have yielded therapeutic benefits in several studies. EPA is particularly effective, especially when taken in addition to a psychotropic medication.
Anti-Psychotic
Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder characterized by a detachment from reality. It is therefore treated with a class of medication called anti-psychotics. Anti-psychotics are psychotropic drugs that are effective in controlling hallucinations and delusions in the majority of people with schizophrenia. There is some evidence that EPA may have an anti-psychotic effect, as well. A 2003 article from "CNS Drugs" states that when used as the sole method of treatment, one clinical trial found EPA was more effective than a placebo in reducing psychotic symptoms in schizophrenic patients.
Deficits
Omega-3 essential fatty acids help to prevent sensory overload. Low levels of fatty acids, which are associated with schizophrenia, may explain the difficulty processing information among people afflicted with this disorder, according to Norman Salem Jr., Ph D. However, maintaining sufficient levels of omega-3 can be problematic. This is because foods containing omega-3 are not consumed as much as foods with omega-6. In addition, Dr. Salem explains that high levels of omega-6 "reduce the body's ability to incorporate omega-3s."
Sources of Omega-3
Omega-3 can be consumed via supplements or through the food you eat. Fish, especially salmon and tuna, are good sources of omega-3, but they contain some omega-6, as well. Omega-6 contains unsaturated fat and is found in certain oils and meats. In the article, "11 Easy Ways to Load Up on Healthy Omega-3 Fats," published in the health section of U.S.News.com in August 2008, salmon, tuna, nuts, seeds, anchovies, sardines, beans, spinach, broccoli and cauliflower are listed as foods high in omega-3 that have only trace amounts of omega-6.
References
- "Drugs"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders; M. Peet & C. Stokes; 2005
- "CNS Drugs"; Clinical Potential of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Schizophrenia; R. Emsely et al.; 2003
- PsychCentral: Schizophrenia and Psychosis Treatment
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega - 3 Fatty Acids
- MentalHelp.net: Integrative Therapies for Schizophrenia
- American Psychological Association: New Study Links DHA Type of Omega-3 to Better Nervous-System Function
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