Omega-3 fatty acids are important for heart, brain, and joint health, yet most Americans don’t get enough in their diets. Omega 3s (especially EPA and DHA) are necessary for robust cellular function. Many research reports have pointed to Omega 3 supplementation for reducing inflammation, decreasing the risk for blood clots, decreasing “bad cholesterol,” supporting healthy brain function, and slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis. EPA and DHA supplementation that is derived from nitrogen distilled, heavy metal free marine lipids is most helpful.
A new study published in Translational Psychiatry supports the link between Omega-3 supplementation and reduction in depression. This analysis included 13 studies with 1,233 participants and each showed a benefit for EPA and DHA comparable to effects reported in meta-analyses of antidepressants, according to the authors.
“This new meta-analysis nuances earlier research on the importance of long chain omega-3s in MDD management”, said Dr. Roel JT Mocking, the study’s lead author and researcher at the Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands. “Omega-3 supplements may be specifically effective in the form of EPA in depressed patients using antidepressants. This could be a next step to personalizing the treatment for depression and other disorders.”
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