Clinical trials demonstrate that omega-3s can help:

  •  Mood
  •  Attention
  •  Cognition
  •  Behavior problems

Omega-3s and the Central Nervous System
Omega-3s play a vital role in central nervous system function, since they make up most of the brain’s gray matter and are an important part of nerve cell membranes and receptors. Omega-3s are also necessary for critical cellular events, such as gene expression and neurotransmission. Population studies have shown a link between omega-3 deficiencies and higher rates of mental health disorders.

Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Several double-blind, placebo controlled trials have shown that EPA, as an add-on therapy to antidepressant medication, improved the symptoms of depression. And clinical studies investigating EPA as a sole treatment for depression are currently underway. This is good news for those who suffer from bipolar disorder, since antidepressants sometimes exacerbate its symptoms.

Pregnancy and Child Development
Omega-3s may become a potential treatment option for depression in women during and after pregnancy. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are rapidly depleted during this time. This deficiency has been linked to depression in adults and post-natal depression in women, and one study, published in Pediatrics, also revealed that children whose mothers consumed higher amounts omega-3s, in particular DHA, had higher intelligence scores.

ADHD
Research has suggested that children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are lacking in essential omega-3 fatty acids, and that lower levels of omega-3s are associated with learning and behavioral problems. Some preliminary studies suggest that omega-3s may help lessen the symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and dyslexia. The acclaimed Oxford-Durham study, published in the medical journal Pediatrics, revealed that children given omega-3s showed significant improvements in reading, spelling, and attention/hyperactivity symptoms.

How It Works
Many scientists believe that a lack of essential cellular nutrients causes nerve cells to function poorly, leading to mental health problems. One major theory holds that certain inflammatory byproducts (such as interleukins, cytokines and mitogens) may be toxic to the nervous system, and research shows that the anti-inflammatory power of omega-3s can help.