Here’s more info on using Omega-3 fatty acids as supplements for depression. There are actually several pre-natal vitamins out now that include Omega-3s, as well as a supplement for nursing moms that has DHA. I’m taking one of the new pre-natal vitamins and so far, so good.
"Omega-3 fats could be a missing link that brains need to be happy. In a recent study, six out of 10 people suffering from depression got relief after taking fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fats (Amer. Jour. of Psychiatry, Mar 2002).
‘These results were huge, and the improvements were obvious,’ says psychiatrist Andrew Stoll, MD, of Harvard Medical School. Those who got the supplements slept better and felt less worthlessness and guilt. ‘We think omega-3s help your brain use a feel-good chemical called serotonin,’ says Dr. Stoll. ‘All cell coatings are made of fats, and when those fats are omega-3s, the serotonin receptors on the surface of brain cells seem to function in a healthier way.’"
The above information came from this article in Prevention magazine.
Hi! Thanks for the great info. I have a question though. Can you take fish oil capsules while taking antidepressants? I know you are not a pharmacist, but I thought you might know. Thanks a ton, Brandi
Hi. First post here. Just a note about omega 3s — products vary a whole lot in their dosage, so you will want to look for products high in EPA and DHA (two of the omega 3 fatty acids).
It's EPA that has been studied fairly thoroughly for depression, but in his book, Andrew Stoll also describes postpartum depression in particular and argues for DHA as well. It's DHA that is necessary in fetal brain development, so the DHA requirements toward the end of pregnancy and then while breastfeeding are particularly high.
In cases of major depression, Stoll suggests that 4 grams of EPA is therapeutic. For people with a history of depression, I would think that 4 grams of EPA + DHA would not be too much. Most prenatal supplements have 1/2-1 gram (500-1000 mg).
Brandi — I would mention it to your doctor, but if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your body needs it (your baby needs it).
Just FYI: I take Nordic Naturals cod liver oil in liquid form. It has high doses of EPA and DHA and is not a "high vitamin" cod liver oil, so I am not getting toxic amounts of Vitamin A and D. The high vitamin form of cod liver oil is great under other conditions, but not so great when you are taking several grams. Nordic Naturals is also 3rd-party tested for purity. Carlson's brand has a good reputation as well. I saw both at a Whole Foods near us recently.
Amanda