Posted by Bill L on July 7, 2003, at 11:14:53
This was in today's edition. If anyone wants to subscibe to this daily free newsletter, go to www.nutritionnewsfocus.com.
July 7, 2003
NUTRITION NEWS FOCUS
"Nutrition news is important. We help you understand it!"Today's Topic: Omega-3 Fats and Depression
Omega-3 fatty acids are found mostly in fatty fish, but they can also
be obtained from flax, canola or soybean oils. They are not made in
the body and must be obtained from the diet, but we need very small
amounts. One of the many benefits suggested is elevation of mood. A
new study finds no effect on depression.Thirty-six patients with major depression were assigned to two groups,
one taking capsules with two grams a day of an omega-3 fat called DHA
and the other taking a placebo for six weeks. About one-quarter of
each group improved and there was no difference between treatments.
The study was published in the May 2003 issue of the American Journal
of Psychiatry.HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: This study was done in
patients with major depression. There is little reason to believe the
omega-3 fats would act like a drug and it is unknown if the dose was
appropriate or if other omega-3 fats were required. A few studies
have shown benefits of this fat in mild depression, so smile when you
eat your fish.
poster:Bill L
thread:239844
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030701/msgs/239844.html