Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the treatment of depression

Abstract

Depression is a common, recurrent, and debilitating illness that has become more prevalent over the past 100 years. This report reviews the etiology and pathophysiology of depression, and explores the role of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) as a possible treatment. In seeking to understand depression, genetic factors and environmental influences have been extensively investigated. Research has led to several hypotheses for the pathophysiological basis of depression but a definitive pathogenic mechanism, or group thereof, has hitherto remained equivocal. To date, treatment has been based on the monoamine hypothesis and hence, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been the most widely used class of medication. In the last decade, there has been considerable interest in n-3 PUFAs and their role in depression. These fatty acids are critical for development and function of the central nervous system. Increasing evidence from epidemiological, laboratory, and randomized placebo-controlled trials suggests deficiency of dietary n-3 PUFAs may contribute to development of mood disorders, and supplementation with n-3 PUFAs may provide a new treatment option. Conclusions based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses of published trials to date vary. Research into the effects of n-3 PUFAs on depressed mood is limited. Furthermore, results from such have led to conflicting conclusions regarding the efficacy of n-3 PUFAs in affecting reduction in symptoms of depression. PUFAs are generally well tolerated by adults and children although mild gastrointestinal effects are reported. There is mounting evidence to suggest that n-3 PUFAs play a role in depression and deserve greater research efforts.

Twelve-Month Studies on Perilla Oil Intake in Japanese Adults—Possible Supplement for Mental Health

“…Tsuboi et al (2013) [7] reported that increased levels of serum saturated fatty acids and ω-6 PUFAs such as arachidonic acid (AA, C22:4, ω-6), are associated with depression. On the contrary, ω-3 PUFAs are involved in the attenuation of neuro-inflammation [8], prevention of neuronal death [9], and development of cognitive ability [10,11] and improvement of mood disorders in humans and animals [12][13][14]. These reports support the concept that brain inflammation, depression, and anxiety seen in patients suffering from mental disorders may be related to a deficiency in ω-3 PUFAs.…”

Omega-3 fatty acids and the treatment of depression: a review of scientific evidence

“…A recent review by Deacon et al 41 formed variable conclusions by systematic review and meta-analysis. Results from the research done on the effects of omega-polyunsaturated fatty acids on the depression related mood disorder have led to variable results 41 .…”

“…Results from the research done on the effects of omega-polyunsaturated fatty acids on the depression related mood disorder have led to variable results 41 . Furthermore as the findings from various research studies about omega-3 fatty acids and the treatment of depression are conflicted.…”

A Review of Recruitment, Adherence and Drop-Out Rates in Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation Trials in Children and Adolescents

“…Fatty acids, and especially the omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids ( n -3 LCPUFA), are being researched extensively for a wide array of health outcomes varying from, but not exclusive to, cardiovascular diseases, depression and cognition [1,2,3]. As in every health related field, randomized controlled supplementation trials are the gold standard to demonstrate efficacy of n -3 LCPUFA [4].…”