Fish Oil and Depression
In the fields of psychology and psychiatry, the terms depression or depressed refer to unhappiness and other related feelings and behaviors. Depression is something that is understood when experienced – it can be a lack of vigor, lack of interest in life, or can be thought of as either a illness or a disorder.
As to whether fish oil can help with depression, Archive of General Psychiatry (http://archpsyc.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/56/5/407) published the following in 1999 (56:407-412). They gave a background that omega-3 fatty acids may inhibit neuronal signal transduction pathways in a manner similar to that of 2 effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study aimed to find out whether omega 3 fatty acids would also be able to help with mood stabilization – similar to the common drugs for bipolar disorder.
The results were that “the {omega}3 fatty acid patient group had a significantly longer period of remission than the placebo group [and]...for nearly every other outcome measure, the {omega}3 fatty acid group performed better than the placebo group.
According to American Journal of Psychiatry "Several epidemiological studies suggest covariation between seafood consumption and rates of mood disorders. Biological marker studies indicate deficits in omega-3 fatty acids in people with depressive disorders, while several treatment studies indicate therapeutic benefits from omega-3 supplementation. A similar contribution of omega-3 fatty acids to coronary artery disease may explain the well-described links between coronary artery disease and depression. Deficits in omega-3 fatty acids have been identified as a contributing factor to mood disorders and offer a potential rational treatment approach." (American Journal of Psychiatry 163:969-978, June 2006)
Before taking fish oil for depression treatment – one should consult with a doctor or psychiatrist. If you are having symptoms of depression, and not taking any fish oil, it would behoove you to start. I do have experience, from people I know closely, that fish oil will improve energy.
Always make sure to read the labels carefully. Cod liver oil or any other oil made from fish liver may enlarge the threat of vitamin A or D toxicity. Always find fish oil that is highly concentrated in omega-3 fatty acids. Some brands are over 92 percent omega-3s, while others contain only 30 percent.
When the Fish oil is taken regularly it can cure depression, improve the thinking process and increase concentration. Traditionally, fish has been thought of as a brain food and ongoing research for the last 15 years is promising regarding fish oil and depression treatments.
Note: Oil of Pisces looks to be an excellent resource for mental health and fish oil.
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I have been mainly getting my omega 3 by eating fish such as salmon. Your article has enlightened me to other sources. I am going to try the fish oil starting this week to see if it helps minimize my depression feelings.
Bill @ Effects of Depression´s last blog ..Depression Anxiety Symptoms | Effects of Depression
I’ve noticed that eating oily fishes like salmon and sardines for instance has a positive effect on the brain. It does put me in better mood. Taking fish oil seems to be a great alternative as well. Thanks for the tips.
When I am working with my depressed clients, I always recommend that we take a look at their diet. It can be something as simple as the lack of certain vitamins, minerals and, yes, fish oils. Increasing Omega 3 fatty acids in your diet can be a simple, cost effective depression treatment and its much better then meds! Glad to see you are out there spreading the word.
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