New research has concluded that there is insufficient evidence for the use of omega-3 fatty acids in treating major depressive disorder (MDD).
These supplements, which are widely thought to be essential for good health, are naturally found in fatty fish, such as tuna, seafood and some nuts and seeds. Over the past few years, various studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may help to treat MDD.
However, a new Cochrane investigation—and subsequent study—studied the impact of omega-3 supplementation when compared to both placebo pills and an anti-depressant treatment.
“We found a small-to-modest positive effect of Omega 3 fatty acids compared to placebo, but the size of this effect is unlikely to be meaningful to people with depression, and we considered the evidence to be of low or very low quality,” says Katherine Appleton, the study’s lead author. “At present, we just don’t have enough high quality evidence to determine the effects of Omega 3 fatty acids as a treatment for major depressive disorder. It’s important that people who suffer from depression are aware of this, so that they can make more informed choices about treatment.”
If your patients or customers suffer from MDD, consider pointing them toward other treatment options. With a lack of evidence surrounding the use of omega-3s, they’re unlikely to find improvement.
