Omega 3s May Help Alleviate Symptoms of Depression

Did you know your brain has fat? In fact, over 50% of your brain’s dry weight comes from fat, and some are critical building blocks of cell membranes. These fats also play key roles in your brain’s function. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids help form cell membranes, keep the membranes pliable, and regulate chemical messengers like hormones that can affect your mood.

Research suggests that essential fatty acids like omega-e help lower triglycerides, regulate your heartbeat, slow atherosclerosis, and lower the risk of death in people diagnosed with heart disease.

Research also points to the potential for omega-3 fatty acids to play a role in treating depression.

Several studies suggest that natural sources of omega-3s, like fish oil, may help balance your mood. Is it powerful enough to produce results like antidepressants? Well, scientists are taking a harder look at a popular class of antidepressants called SSRIs (serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors). Just recently, a meta-analysis of the research showed that serotonin plays no role in depression, which means that the conventional wisdom that SSRIs help depression may be very wrong.

Interest in other natural supports for treating depression is growing. Let’s take a deeper look at omega-3s and fish oil in particular.