Omega-3-fatty acids are essential fatty acids, a type of nutrient that human beings cannot produce themselves, and that must be obtained through diet. Rich dietary sources of omega-3-fatty acids include fish and seafood. They also can be obtained through dietary supplements.
Omega-3-fatty acids have been of great interest to researchers because of their potential health benefits. In particular, omega-3-fatty acids are highly concentrated in nerve cells (called neurons) in the central nervous system, and seem to alter the function of neurotransmitters. For these reasons, they have been hypothesized to play a role in mental health and psychiatric disorders.
Studies have shown that omega-3-fatty acid supplementation may lead to a decrease in symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder. In addition, early, preliminary studies on omega-3-fatty acid supplementation have shown to possibly help women with borderline personality disorder. However, more research is needed to confirm these preliminary findings and to explore whether other conditions may respond to omega-3-fatty acid supplementation.
Source:
Freeman MP, Hibbeln JR, Wisner KL, Davis JM, Mischoulon D, Peet M, et al. “Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Evidence Basis For Treatment and Future Research in Psychiatry.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. 67:1954-1967, 2006.
Zanarini MC, Frankenburg FR. “Omega-3 Fatty Acid Treatment of Women with Borderline Personality Disorder: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.” American Journal of Psychiatry. 160:167-169, 2003.
