Perinatal Depression and Postpartum Depression: Fight Them with Omega-3
Fish Oil: A Response Against Perinatal and Postpartum Depression
Dietary Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in combating both perinatal depression and postpartum depression. Perinatal depression (also called maternal depression) and postpartum depression (also known as postnatal depression) are two mood disorders occurring during pregnancy and after childbirth:
- the first manifests with physical and emotional changes during the 9 months of pregnancy;
- the second affects women between 6 and 12 weeks after delivery and can last for varying durations.
Perinatal Depression: The Role of Omega-3
Nutrition is one of the risk factors behind the onset of this mood disorder, which should never be overlooked as it can harm both the mother's and the child’s health. These are the words of Brenda M. Y. Leung, author of a study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The symptoms of this condition are similar to those of common depression:
- low mood
- difficulty concentrating
- apathy
- poor sleep quality
- loss of appetite
The study highlighted that low levels of Omega-3 EPA and DHA may contribute to the development of this condition. Therefore, supplementation with these nutrients is necessary, which can be done in two ways:
- by consuming foods rich in Omega-3 (especially fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and sardines) 2-3 times a week;
- by adding dietary supplements containing these fatty acids.
Additionally, minerals like iron and zinc may influence the risk of developing this disorder.
Postpartum Depression: Fish Oil as a Preventive Tool
The intake during pregnancy of Omega-3 DHA from fish oil reduces the risk of developing postpartum depression and helps to improve the baby's health. This is revealed by a study of 52 pregnant women conducted by the University of Connecticut School of Nursing. The researchers divided the pregnant women into two groups:
- the first group took fish oil capsules containing 300 milligrams of DHA daily from the 24th week of pregnancy until delivery;
- the second group received a placebo.
After delivery, all participants underwent an emotional state evaluation using the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale, a method that objectively assesses feelings and personal sensations (sadness, anxiety, emotionality, guilt, loss of self). It was found that women treated with fish oil scored lower, indicating less anxiety, sadness, and emotionality compared to those given placebo. This means that Omega-3 DHA from fish oil provided an effective protective effect during pregnancy. During the “sweet waiting,” researchers recommend taking Omega-3 at least 3 times per week.
