Omega-3 fatty acids, found in abundance in fish oil supplements, remain one of the top-selling nutritional supplements in the United States. In fact, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) notes that fish oil is the most popular non-vitamin supplement in the United States. Fish oil enjoys popularity as a complementary treatment for several diseases and conditions, including mental and psychiatric disorders. While studies have not yet conclusively demonstrated fish oil's efficacy as a treatment for mental illness, emerging evidence reveals it may help to treat some of the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Theories
Many of the popular uses for fish oil-- including its use as a treatment for bipolar disorder-- are largely based in theory. A 2004 review published in the medical journal "Biological Psychiatry" revealed that psychiatric patients who have recently attempted suicide are frequently deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. Because the brain is largely composed of these essential fatty acids, nutritionists and psychiatrists theorize that deficiency may play a role in the development of severe mental illness. In theory, fish oil supplements can correct this nutritional deficiency and improve a person's overall mental health. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, fish oil is under investigation as a treatment option for several mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, attention deficit disorder, antenatal depression and autism.
Effects
In October 2008, "Archives of Psychiatric Nursing" published a systematic review of omega-3 fatty acids as a treatment for bipolar disorder. After collecting data from several well-designed studies, the authors of the review concluded that there is some evidence to support the notion that fish oil can reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder. Patients taking fish oil supplements are statistically less likely to experience mania or depression than patients taking a placebo. In theory, these products work by improving omega-3 fatty acid levels in the brain. The authors of this review report that fish oil has a "benign side effect profile" and may be useful as a bipolar disorder treatment. However, the National Institutes of Health note that more evidence is needed before experts can firmly conclude whether or not it is effective.
Dosage
Studies have not yet determined an ideal dose of fish oil for treating bipolar disorder or other forms of mental illness. According to the National Institutes of Health, most fish oil studies have involved the use of 300 to 3,000 mg of the essential fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). A psychiatrist, holistic practitioner or nutritionist may offer a specific recommendation depending on a patient's weight, diet and medical history. According to "Archives of Psychiatric Nursing," DHA and EPA are only effective for bipolar disorder when they are used in combination; these compounds do not appear to work when they are isolated from one another.
Considerations
While nutritional supplements and other holistic interventions can effectively treat most forms of mental illness, people with bipolar disorder should avoid self-diagnosis or self-treatment. The NCCAM warns that patients should never use omega-3 supplements as a replacement for professional medical advice. Bipolar disorder is a serious condition that may be disabling or even life-threatening if left unchecked; like other serious illnesses, it requires expert treatment and evaluation. If a person is interested in taking fish oil supplements in lieu of conventional medications, she should discuss the potential benefits and risks with a licensed practitioner. Never stop taking a medication without consulting your health care provider.
Warning
Like all supplements and medications, fish oil is associated with some risks. The National Institutes of Health warn that patients with bipolar disorder have reported mania as a rare side effect of omega-3 supplements; while this complication is extremely uncommon, it may be a concern for bipolar patients who are especially prone to mania. The NIH also notes that patients should avoid taking excessive "Eskimo" doses of fish oil; these may increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke and other bleeding episodes. People with bleeding disorders and those taking blood-thinners should use fish oil only under the supervision of a licensed practitioner.
