The use of alternative treatments for mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression has grown in popularity in recent years. Many people suffering from a variety of mental illnesses turn to holistic treatments such as aromatherapy, biofeedback and the use of supplements like fish oil in the hopes of avoiding negative side effects associated with psychotropic medications. While fish oil is not a cure for depression or anxiety, it may provide some helpful benefits.
Fish Oil Facts
Fish oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for proper brain functioning, according to Mayo Clinic psychiatrist Daniel K. Hall-Flavin. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential unsaturated fatty acids, called "essential" because your body requires them but cannot manufacture them. Omega-3 fatty acids contain chemicals known as eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. These chemicals are known as long-chain forms of omega-3 fatty acids and are found in fish, fish oil and algae extract. While it's widely known that fish oil provides cardiovascular benefits and may reduce the risk of certain types of cancers, many people aren't aware of the benefits of fish oil for mood and mental health. In particular, depressed people may have low levels of EPA and DHA.
Benefits for Depression
The benefits of fish oil for depression have been widely researched. A systematic review published in the December 2006 Journal of Clinical Psychiatry showed that omega-3 fatty acids, in particular EPA and DHA, provide significant benefits for unipolar and bipolar depression, while data shows potential but inconclusive benefits for major depressive disorder. Additionally, a review in the July 1995 Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA, may reduce depression. While further research is needed, these findings suggest that fish oil may be a beneficial nutritional supplement for patients suffering from depression.
Benefits for Anxiety
The benefits of fish oil for the reduction of anxiety symptoms has been studied with less rigor than has its use for depression. One study, published in the December 2006 Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, examined the effects of DHA and EPA on substance abusers suffering from anxiety disorders. The findings of this study show a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms among study participants receiving the EPA and DHA supplements. In their book, "Prescription for Natural Cures," James Balch, MD, Mark Stengler, NMD, and Robin Balch, MD, suggest taking 2,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily to combat anxiety. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some people experience a decrease in anxiety when using fish oil supplements; however, further research is required to confirm these benefits.
Considerations
Fish oil may be a beneficial supplement for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, you should consult your doctor before taking fish oil supplements, especially if you are taking prescription medications, bruise easily or have a blood-clotting disorder. Fish oil should not be used as a substitute for your doctor's advice. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fish oil supplements may cause undesirable side effects such as gas, bloating and diarrhea.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Fish Oil Supplements: Can They Treat Depression?
- Journal of Clinical Psychiatry: "Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Evidence Basis for Treatment and Future Research in Psychiatry"; Marlene P. Freeman, MD et al; December 2006
- Journal of Clinical Nutrition: "Dietary Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Depression: When Cholesterol Does Not Satisfy"; J.R. Hibbeln and N. Salem Jr ; July 1995
- Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology: "n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Decrease Anxiety Feelings in a Population of Substance Abusers"; L. Buydens-Branchey, MD and Marc Branchey, MD; December 2006
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch, MD, Mark Stengler, NMD, and Robin Balch, MD; 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
