By Dennis Thompson Jr
Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
Last Updated: April 20, 2010
Omega-3 fatty acids have earned a reputation as a wonder nutrient. Research has shown that omega-3s help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation, cutting your risk of developing heart disease. Other studies have found that omega-3s have some benefit in treating arthritis. Recently, attention has turned to whether the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids extend to the brain and if they can help people with bipolar disorder.
The short answer to that question for now is "maybe." There's early evidence to suggest that omega-3 fatty acids might be able to help ease bipolar symptoms. However, reviews of the current research have concluded that while there is promise in omega-3s as a bipolar disorder treatment, there's not enough evidence to conclude that it is of definite benefit.
Omega-3s and the Brain
Omega-3 fatty acids are needed for good health, but the body doesn't produce them — you must get them through your diet. The omega-3s known as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are found primarily in oily fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut, as well as other forms of seafood. Another type of omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), can be found in some nuts and seeds (like flaxseed, hemp seeds, and walnuts) and in vegetable oils like canola, soybean, and olive oils.
Omega-3 fatty acids appear to be important to brain function. Omega-3s are highly concentrated in the brain, particularly DHA and EPA. Infants who don't get enough of these substances from their mothers during pregnancy can develop nerve and vision problems. People with an omega-3 deficiency may also have symptoms that include poor memory and mood swings. Researchers believe omega-3s may play a crucial role in nervous system activity, and some studies have found that people taking omega-3 supplements showed signs of cognitive improvement.
The Potential of Omega-3s for Bipolar Disorder
Doctors believe omega-3 fatty acids are a potential treatment for bipolar disorder because the fish-oil fatty acids, EPA and DHA, can alter brain signal pathways in ways similar to mood stabilizers like lithium and valproate. That makes EPA and DHA potentially the most important omega-3s as far as bipolar disorder is concerned. Postmortem examinations of bipolar patients have found significantly lower DHA concentrations in the prefrontal cortex compared with the general population, and epidemiological surveys have found that people who eat more fish or seafood are less likely to have bipolar disorder.
