Fish Oil and Depression
It’s been made widely known in recent years that fish oil is good for the heart and for our overall health. What’s less well known is that fish oil is also good for the brain. The connection between fish oil and depression has been well-documented in many clinical research trials.
Fish oil comes from fatty fish like sardines, mackerel, salmon, herring and anchovies. It contains Omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid or DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA. These kind of Omega-3 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body so it is important to take in food that contain these kinds of nutrients.
Not only is Fish oil and depression relief well established, it is also proven to improve brain development and memory. DHA plays an important role in the development and structure of the brain.
Clinical research has shown that adding fish oil to your diet could also reduce the possibility and risks of psychological disorders like depressive orders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Actually, according to a study by Aberdeen University they identified that fish oil can actually increase IQ scores and can even slow the ageing process. According to a Swedish study published in the Archives of Neurology, patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer were given 1.7 grams of DHA and .6 grams of EPA. They showed less cognitive decline in six months.
These are the two main divisions of the fatty acids. Vegetables oils like soy oil and corn oil fall under the omega-6 group. And most of us are aware, and take note that experts agree on this, that too much intake of vegetable oils could result to blood clothing and inflammation.
Some studies have found out that fish oil when used by people with asthma conditions seems to provide relief and a general improvement of health conditions. Aside from those with asthma and other allergies, people who are being treated for depression and mood swings can use fish oil as well to help them control their emotions.
Reduce Inflammation With Fish Oil
One of the more beneficial properties of omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil is their anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Fish oil can be used to prevent or reduce the inflammation of the tissues.
Regular consumption of fish oil has been known to help those people who are suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases. It has also been known to be effective in treating certain gastrointestinal disorders as well as ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Fish Oil and Depression, Stress, Anxiety and the Abdominal Brain
Diet and digestive health can be very influential when experiencing depression and/or anxiety. Current research is revealing that the stomach and intestines have a very sensitive neural network called the enteric nervous system. Some researchers are calling this complex nervous system “the abdominal brain” because of it’s extensive neural pathways.
You’ve no doubt noticed how stress and negative emotions can “hit you in the gut.” This is an example of the abdominal brain in action. If our lives are hectic and fast paced with little time to relax, the stress will tend to build up in the abdominal area which can cause indigestion, acid reflux and many other issues.
This situation can be aggravated by processed foods that contain artificial additives that may cause an allergic irritation. In natural treatment of depression and anxiety, modifying diet is an effective way to ease symptoms.
Fish oil has long been used in natural medicine to address issues which may be connected to gastrointestinal (abdominal brain) problems.
Fish Oil and ADHD
Not only is the connection between fish oil and depression relief well-established, it is also recommended for children who have ADHD. There are studies showing that the lack polyunsaturated fatty acids can contribute to this disorder. This can also be the reason behind dyslexia.
There were studies conducted among children, they were given fish oil supplements for the period of three months. Significant improvements were seen in these children relative to behaviour, reading and spelling. Focus and concentration were also improved.
Other studies about fish oil and depression have shown that Omega-3 fatty acids had similar effects as Prozac which is a known anti-depressant. Studies showed that countries with high fish consumption have lower rates of depression. Aside from that, pregnant women and those who have just given birth who include fish in their diet regularly have lower risk of experiencing postpartum depression.
If you have decided to take fish oil for depression or other mental issues, then it would be best to consult your healthcare provider first. Issues like depression and anxiety can be serious, so it’s always a good idea to get a professional evaluation.