The potential role of omega-3 fatty acids in mental health management has attracted considerable attention in recent years. A new study has added to the growing body of evidence that fish oil supplementation can effectively reduce the symptoms of depression.

In the study 432 outpatients of psychiatric clinics experiencing major depression, over 40% of whom were taking antidepressant medication, were administered an omega-3 supplement (providing 1,050 mg/d EPA and 150 mg/d DHA) or a dummy pill for eight weeks. The effect was measured through analysis of the severity of depressive symptoms as reflected in the results of specific questionnaires: the self reported Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (IDS-SR(30)) and a psychiatrist rated Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). 

For patients without related anxiety disorders omega-3 supplementation was superior to placebo, with an average difference of 3.17 points on the IDS-SR(30) and 1.93 points on the MADRS. The authors concluded that: "there was a clear benefit of omega-3 supplementation among patients with MDE without comorbid anxiety disorders.”

Current recommendations are to consume two portions of fish, at least one of which should be an oily fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines, weekly; those who have had a heart attack are advised to supplement with 1g of omega-3 (DHA and EPA) daily.

Three capsules daily of Quest’s Marine Omega-3  provides 1g of EPA and DHA .

Click here to view the study abstract.