Which Omega-3 for Depression?
Tue, December 14, 2010 at 03:00AM In early 2008 I tried to tell readers which omega-3 fatty acid was the best for cardiovascular benefits. It emerged as a roughly equal mixture a mixture of docosahexaenoic acid ( DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). It seems, however, that things are different if you are trying to treat the symptoms of depression. Thus, according to a presentation at the American College of Neuropsychiatry meeting, only EPA, and not DHA, is associated with mood improvement in patients with depression.
A meta-analysis was done on 15 placebo-controlled studies that met the criteria for inclusion. The conclusion was that an EPA-predominant formulation is necessary for a full therapeutic antidepressant effect, while DHA-predominant formulation has little antidepressant effect. It was noted that, in subjects without depression, omega-3 fatty acids are not euphoriant, i.e. they don’t elevate a normal mood still further.
A previous study by the same principal investigator in 8,000 pregnant women showed that low levels of omega-3 intake were linked to a higher likelihood of depression during their pregnancy.
These results make it clear that an adequate intake of EPA is required (or at least is desirable) to avoid depression. The best way to achieve this is to eat omega-3 rich foods (e.g. fish, nuts), which contain equal amounts of EPA and DHA. However, if you prefer to take a supplement, and depression is you likely problem, make sure the supplement contains chiefly EPA.
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