Omega-3 fatty acids (Fish Oils)
Omega-3 essential fatty acids (oils), which include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are found primarily in fish (such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) and some plants. While they are necessary for the proper functioning of our bodies, the levels necessary for health benefits are more than can readily be achieved through diet alone. These oils are used as supplemental treatments for an array of conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. These oils also play a role in brain development and function.
People with schizophrenia have low levels of these essential fatty acids in their bodies. Studies of individuals with schizophrenia who were given EPA/DHA suggest that these oils reduce the amount of standard medication necessary to treat the disease. In addition, individuals with schizophrenia who take Omega-3s seem to experience fewer symptoms. However, these studies are too small to provide a definitive answer about the effectiveness of EPA/DHA in treating all people with schizophrenia. Again, supplementing with EPA/DHA remains an adjunctive (complementary) therapy until further studies can clarify its role in treating schizophrenia.
Safety and Dosing
Normal dosing for the omega-3 fatty acids is between 1-4 grams a day. Most fish-oil supplements contain about 18% EPA/DHA, so to get a gram of EPA/DHA, one has to take approximately five 1-gram supplements.
Fish oils have been shown to both lower cardiovascular (heart) disease risk and raise cholesterol in some people. Likewise, EPA/DHA has been shown to lower blood sugar in diabetics and to raise it in some people. If you are taking medications for diabetes, your dosing may have to change. If you are considering taking more than 1 gram of EPA/DHA a day, and are on medications for diabetes or cardiovascular disease, you should consult with your health professional before starting.
Most side effects from taking fish oils are mild. Taking fish oils may act as an anticoagulant (blood thinner), so consult with your health provider if you are taking any blood-thinning medications.
