Omega-3

Friday, July 1st 2005

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Studies Find Links to Depression

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids has been proven to prevent cardiovascular disease and these fatty acids may also help prevent depression.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found abundantly in fish and seafood. The consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is lower in the United States than in any other country and it also has one of the highest depression rates in the world.

Numerous studies worldwide have linked lack of omega-3 consumption - specifically DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA eicosapentaenoic acid) - with depression. One study found that depression symptoms were higher among infrequent fish consumers than among those who ate fish on a regular basis.

Another study indicated that omega-3 fatty acids may influence how the brain functions. Researchers found that in healthy individuals, low plasma concentrations of DHA predicted low concentrations of brain serotonin. This decreased amount of serotonin can be associated with depression and suicide.

DHA is extremely important to the body because it is: The primary building block in the gray matter of the human brain and the retina of the eye. It is essential at every stage of human life (beginning in utero). Because of the suicide risks linked to antidepressant use, researchers are hopeful that omega-3 fatty acids will eliminate or replace these high-risk drugs.

Reproduced unabridged from the July - September 2005 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Cardiovascular Health, Memory and Brain Function:

Efalex Ability
Efamarine
Evening Primrose Oil
Fish Oil 1000 - Omega 3
Flaxseed Oil
Hemp Seed Oil
Omega 3 Fish Oil
StarFlax Oil Blend Capsules
Waihi Bush Organic Essential Blend Oil

Related health information can be found here:

Allergies
Anti-Inflammatory
Arthritis & Rheumatism
Cardiovascular Health
Cholesterol
Depression
Heart Problems
Memory
Obesity

Related articles can be found here:

Arthritis Studies Focus on Boswellia

Efamarine - help for joint mobility and the maintenance of immunity

Healthy eye & brain development for babies

Study finds natural alternative may ease pain for arthritis sufferers

 

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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