Omega 3 DHA Supplements: An Effective Aid Against Depression and Dementia

The intake of Omega 3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) could be a better choice in dementia prevention compared to the use of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). While several studies have already demonstrated the benefits of EPA for mental health, research published in the British Journal of Nutrition now reveals that fish oil supplements containing a higher amount of DHA than EPA are more effective in reducing both depressive symptoms and the risk of dementia.

The Effectiveness of Different Omega-3 Combinations

Many studies have already highlighted the benefits of Omega-3s for mood, behavior, and brain function. The new research, the result of collaboration between researchers from the University of South Australia in Adelaide and the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane (Australia), focused on depression and the increased risk that this psychological disorder accelerates the progression from mild cognitive impairment to full dementia. The study lasted 6 months and involved 50 individuals over 65 years old with mild cognitive impairment. Participants took daily fish oil supplements rich in Omega-3, or, as a control, 2.2 grams of linoleic acid (LA), an Omega-6 fatty acid. 

Specifically, one group received a daily dose of Omega-3 equal to 1.67 grams of EPA and 0.16 grams of DHA, while others took a mixture richer in DHA (1.55 grams) than EPA (0.40 grams). The benefits of the different treatments were evaluated based on verbal fluency and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), a questionnaire used to detect depressive symptoms in elderly patients.

The Greater Effects of DHA

The comparison between data collected at the beginning and at the end of the trial showed that both Omega-3 combinations improved depressive symptoms. However, the best results were obtained with the higher doses of DHA. Moreover, those who took the highest amounts of DHA also showed improvement in reading fluency and reported feeling better physically.

Which Omega-3 to Choose?

According to the researchers, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of fish oil rich in DHA or EPA against depressive symptoms. Omega-3s would have variable effects both on cognitive abilities and on the physical condition of the patient. But, the authors continue, these new results also suggest that pure EPA supplements used in previous studies may not be the most suitable choice for patients with mild cognitive impairment suffering from depression. DHA, in fact, could be a better alternative.  

Source 

1. Sinn N, Milte CM, Street SJ, Buckley JD, Coates AM, Petkov J, Howe PR, “Effects of n-3 fatty acids, EPA v. DHA, on depressive symptoms, quality of life, memory and executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a 6-month randomised controlled trial”, Br J Nutr. 2011 Sep 20:1-12. [Epub ahead of print]