Positive Health Online

Abstract

DEACON and COLLEAGUES, 1. a Pharmacy and Applied Science, La Trobe University , Victoria , Australia; 2. b School of Pharmacy, La Trobe University , Victoria , Australia reviewed the published scientific literature about the etiology and pathophysiology of depression and the role of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) as a possible treatment

Background

Depression is a common, recurrent, and debilitating illness that has become more prevalent over the past 100 years.

Methodology

This report reviews the etiology and pathophysiology of depression, and explores the role of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) as a possible treatment. In seeking to understand depression, genetic factors and environmental influences have been extensively investigated.

Results

Research has led to several hypotheses for the pathophysiological basis of depression but a definitive pathogenic mechanism, or group thereof, has hitherto remained equivocal. To date, treatment has been based on the monoamine hypothesis and hence, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been the most widely used class of medication. In the last decade, there has been considerable interest in n-3 PUFAs and their role in depression. These fatty acids are critical for development and function of the central nervous system. Increasing evidence from epidemiological, laboratory, and randomized placebo-controlled trials suggests deficiency of dietary n-3 PUFAs may contribute to development of mood disorders, and supplementation with n-3 PUFAs may provide a new treatment option. Conclusions based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses of published trials to date vary. Research into the effects of n-3 PUFAs on depressed mood is limited. Furthermore, results from such have led to conflicting conclusions regarding the efficacy of n-3 PUFAs in affecting reduction in symptoms of depression. PUFAs are generally well tolerated by adults and children although mild gastrointestinal effects are reported.

Conclusion

There is mounting evidence to suggest that n-3 PUFAs play a role in depression and deserve greater research efforts.

References

Deacon G1, Kettle C1, Hayes D2, Dennis C2, Tucci J2. Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the treatment of depression. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr; 57(1):212-223. Jan 2 2017.

Comment

It is hoped that additional research be conducted investigating the role of Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the treatment of depression.