Higher Dose Omega-3 and Depression: Three New Published Studies 2024*
Over the years, omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have gained significant attention in academic circles for their potential role in treating various types of depression. Although products like Coromega are dietary supplements that are subject to FDA rules restricting whether health claims can be made with regard to the ingredients in these products, it’s important to stay on top of trending research to understand potential benefits. Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help alleviate symptoms of several different types of depression through several different mechanisms.
First, sufficient doses of omega-3s can influence neurotransmitter function. They are believed to enhance serotonin and dopamine levels, two key neurotransmitters that regulate mood. By promoting a healthier balance of these chemicals, omega-3s may contribute to improved emotional well-being.
Further, omega-3s have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of depression, and incorporating omega-3s into the diet may help reduce this inflammation, studies have shown, but the levels found in regular fish oil softgels are not high enough. This anti-inflammatory effect could be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing inflammatory-related mood disorders.
Studies have also shown that omega-3 supplementation can be effective for various types of depression, including major depressive disorder and postpartum depression. Some clinical trials indicate that patients who supplement with omega-3s experience significant reductions in depressive symptoms compared to those who do not.
While omega-3s dietary supplements cannot replace traditional treatments like therapy or medication, many mental health practitioners believe they can serve as a valuable adjunctive therapy. As more research emerges, the importance of incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into our diets becomes clear, offering a natural and accessible way to support mental health. Whether through dietary sources or supplements, omega-3s could play a crucial role in the future of depression treatment.
Three recently published and peer reviewed studies which concern omega-3 fatty acids as a potential therapy for depressive disorders are linked below. Read them and draw your own conclusions, but know that a healthy omega-3 level imparts many benefits to our brains, hearts and bodies.
1. Chemogenetic Targeting TRPV1 in Obesity-Induced Depression: Unveiling Therapeutic Potential of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Acupuncture
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S088915912400669X?dgcid=coauthor
Findings underscore the potential of targeting TRPV1 with EPA and ACE as a therapeutic approach for obesity related depression.
2. The Efficacy of Omega-3 Fatty Acids as the Monotherapy for Depression: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/21/3688
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have demonstrated protective effects in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients receiving antidepressant treatment. The findings of this study suggested that monotherapy of omega-3 fatty acids could improve depression and potentially serve as an alternative option for MDD patients.
3. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity in Major Depressive Disorder: Restoring Balance for Neuroinflammation and Neuroprotection
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11426295/
Examination of blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in MDD. Omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects thereby restoring BBB integrity in MDD. This review aims to elucidate these potential mechanisms and evaluate the evidence for n-3 PUFAs as a strategy to mitigate BBB dysfunction and neuroinflammation in MDD. Researchers concluded that further study is required in this area before additional conclusions could be reached but were encouraged by the study results.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.