Can Omega 3 Fatty Acids Help those Suffering from Psychological Disorders?

It is a well-known fact that omega-3 fatty acids often help with the prevention and management of blood pressure, high cholesterol, formation of blood clots and even metabolic syndrome. However, recent studies are indicating that they could also be effective in reducing some of the symptoms exhibited by patients suffering from certain psychological diseases and disorders.

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Promising Results Against the Symptoms of Depression

The effects of clinical depression are quite profound and although the causes from which depression can arise are plenty, it has been found that an insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids from food sources can either be one of the primary causes for depression or the deficiency itself could be making the symptoms of depression worse than they otherwise would be. Multiple studies have been conducted over the years regarding the effect of omega-3 supplements on depression and the results have actually been conclusive enough to support the claim that they are indeed effective in controlling the adverse effects of depression and in particular, that of the major depressive disorders (MDD).

Stabilization of Mood Disorders

Mood issues arising from bipolar disorders can often be somewhat stabilized by a regular intake of omega-3 supplements and its effectiveness in managing the extreme mood swings experienced by bipolar patients is actually quite encouraging. Given that bipolar disorder is at times classified as a form of manic depression, it makes sense that omega-3s, that are effective in countering signs of depression, would be effective in this case as well.

Mental Health Preservation in Seniors

As we age, our brains tend to lose mass and a lot of the natural abilities decline along with this inevitable aging process, known as neurodegeneration. Diseases such as Alzheimer’s bring about and speed up neurodegeneration in seniors quite rapidly, giving rise to a number of serious consequences such as dementia and loss of basic skills. The role of omega-3 fats here have been found to be that of a speed breaker which slows down the progress of neurodegeneration brought on by age and even Alzheimer’s to a small degree.

Patients with Sleep Disorders Might See Benefits

Melatonin is primarily responsible for helping us in controlling our sleeping and waking up routines and omega-3 fatty acids are required for the pineal gland to produce this hormone in sufficient amount. As a result, a patient who is suffering from insomnia or sleep apnea might actually be omega-3 deficient. In such patients, a regular intake of omega-3 supplements can bring about positive changes by normalizing the melatonin levels.

It should be understood that omega-3s are preventive and assistive nutrients that the body and brain often find useful while combating a number of diseases and disorders, but they are not replacements for drugs, therapy or medical treatment of any kind. Nevertheless, it is clear that by simply adding omega 3 supplements to one’s regular diet, it is possible to potentially boost the effects of those treatments and help the brain in fighting off a number of common mental health issues naturally.