Posted by Terry on February 28, 1999, at 22:48:18
In reply to Re: omega-3 fatty acids, posted by Sean on February 25, 1999, at 18:45:44
Some formulations of omega-3 fatty acids indicate you should take 8 capsules daily to get 3 grams (3,000 mg). They're big capsules and difficult to swallow. Many people find it difficult to take that many large pills on a daily basis. The data are still preliminary, but you might try taking the recommended dose on the bottle and giving it some time, such as a few months, to see if it works.
> > The National Institutes of Health is reporting on some preliminary data indicating that omega-3 fatty acids (the same ones referred to as "fish oil" or "essential fatty acids") may have some effect on major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In an NIH workshop late last year, researchers reported that it has been known for almost 2 decades that essential fatty acids protect against heart disease. But now researchers think they may help with some mental illness as well. Studies indicate it does alleviate symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. These are preliminary studies and further research is planned. In the meantime, the NIH is not recommending anyone take fatty acids to treat these conditions, but the Institute's Dr. Joseph Hibbeln says it is safe to take up to three grams (3,000 mg) of an omega-3 fatty acid preparation containing both DHA and EPA (most do have both) daily. He DOES NOT recommend taking the fatty acids INSTEAD of regularly prescribed drugs for these conditions.
>
> Oddly enough, I tried taking these because I read
> about them helping mental acuity. In my depressed
> phases, I often can't think or do anything. I'm
> essentially worthless and my right eye droops
> down. I sometimes get smell hallucinations. The omega-3
> acids did not seem to help significantly for me,
> although it is hard for me to tell due to the
> capricious behavior of my brain. I know this is
> a terrible pun, but it has a mind of its own...
>
> Maybe I didn't take enough?
poster:Terry
thread:3219
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990201/msgs/3307.html