Oct
4
Scientists are testing fish oil as an anti-depressant after studies showing countries with high seafood consumption have lower rates of mood disorders,
theage.com.au reported.
An institute in Sydney has started recruiting people with mild to moderate depression aged 21 to 65 to assess the benefits of fish oil supplements, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
In the first, six week phase of the study, half the participants will receive daily doses of fish oil, while the remainder will be given an inactive placebo, so researchers can assess any differences.
The next eight-week phase will ensure all those in the trial will receive the active treatment.
“There’s been studies done internationally showing that countries which eat more fish, such as Japan and Norway, have lower rates of depression,” explained psychiatrist Anne-Marie Rees.
“Also, it’s been shown that Omega-3 levels are lower in depressed patients.
“Therefore, it makes sense to conduct trials looking at treating people who have depression with Omega-3 since depletion is likely to be linked to this disease.â€