Fish oil and dietary supplements that contain fish oil are commonly used to help treat various conditions. The omega-3 fatty acids within fish oil provide a variety of health benefits. Some research indicates that the fatty acids may help combat depression. Little specific research is available on fish oil's affects on children with depression, but some trials have shown promising signs. Consult your doctor before giving your child fish oil for depression. Fish oil should not be used as a treatment for depression.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to providing many health benefits. In particular, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, seem to be helpful in relieving depression symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, 100 to 300 mg of either EPA or a combination of EPA and DHA has the potential to combat depression. Fish oil can be obtained through dietary supplements or through your diet. Fish oil that is particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids comes from sardines, mackerel, salmon, snapper, trout and canned white tuna.
Depression Research
The majority of data that exists on fish oil and its effects on depression is based on studies performed on adults. Overall, study findings are favorable. In various studies, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil proved to help relieve depression symptoms in patients without the help of additional depression medication. The fish oil has shown to not only suppress depression but also enables patients to cope with depression symptoms.
Depression in Children
Children with depression often show the same symptoms as adults with depression. It stands to reason that children may benefit from fish oil as well. The online group Bipolar Kids Network has explored the use of fish oil on depressed children. According to the Washington Post, even manic depression symptoms can be relieved with fish oil. If you plan on giving your child fish oil for depression, use caution. More research is needed to determine the fatty acids' effects on the body. Fish oil impacts the nervous system, and high doses of fish oil may have adverse side effects. Speak with your pediatrician or family physician before turning to fish oil for depression.
Fish Oil and the Brain
According to a report by ABCNews.com, scientists in England have found that women who were low on omega-3s doubled their risk of developing postpartum depression during pregnancy, compared to women who had normal levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The reason why the fatty acids from fish oil are effective in helping relieve depression symptoms is because of the impact that DHA has on the brain's development and function. DHA is essential to proper brain functioning. The fatty acid makes up a neuron's wall and promotes proper communication between neurons. Omega-3s also raise serotonin levels, a vital neurotransmitter in the brain. When communication channels in the brain are impaired, depression symptoms can set in. Children's brain functions are similar to adults, which means fish oil may be suitable to relieve depression in kids by improving these communication functions in the brain.
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