Depression can be rooted from so many things particularly stress, tedious work troubles, lonesome insecurities or even little things that seem to be so burdensome. Since the last decade, scientists have been working hard to prove that the mentioned things are actually the symptoms of depression and not causes, as what many people believe.
Since there are eight kinds of omega 3 fatty acids, it must be clear that only two actually help in curing depression. These acids are called DHA and EPA.
Why do scientists claim that omega 3 can help depression?
A life-changing Hibbeln study was conducted to look and compare the depression rates around the globe. The study came to a conclusion that the countries who have more intake of omega 3 in their diets relatively have lesser risk of being depressed and having heart disease.
After the Hibbeln study, an Israeli research conducted a different method of determining whether omega 3 really has an effect in depression. Despite the difference in methods, the research’s conclusion likewise proved that deficiencies in omega 3 and depression are certainly related.
The reason is that abnormalities or deficiencies in levels of certain chemicals in the brain lead to biochemical changes. These chemicals in the brain are called neurotransmitters.
What is the purpose of omega 3 in these biochemical changes?
Neurotransmitters are found in every cell membrane in an individual’s body and they are very significant for they regulate what goes in and out of the cells. When the brain lacks these chemicals, depression as well as memory and cognition problems may arise. In short, omega 3 fatty acids are very necessary for they can help in fighting depression no matter what age the person is. It’s not proven to be a cure yet it certainly is a good weapon in facing life’s troubles
Can’t anti-depressant drugs be used instead?
Currently, there are eight different ways in which omega 3 combats depression, this is what researchers believe. Anti-depressant drugs also possess the same capability to fight depression but they also come with risky and unsafe downside. One of the primary instruction when taking anti-depressant drugs is that certain foods or medication must be avoided to not have a dangerous combination. Also, some of their more serious side effects are:
- Headaches
- Heart racing and palpitations
- Chest pain
- Neck stiffness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Although these side effects may not happen, there is a risk and why settle for them when there’s a natural and not artificial option?
Omega 3s can be found in fish oils but choosing the appropriate fish oil supplement must also be carefully regarded. The best supplements come from clean water bodies and should have the smell of fresh water. Just put in mind that before purchasing a supplement, checking and examining what the label says is a prerequisite action.