Possible prevention of post-partum depression by intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and its relationship with interleukin 6
Abstract
AIM: This study examined whether the intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) prevented post-partum depression and if interleukin 6 (IL-6) was involved in this effect. We hypothesized that omega-3 supplementation has a protective effect against post-partum depression.
METHODS: We measured eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), the arachidonic acid (AA)/EPA ratio, and IL-6 in 80 singleton pregnant women during the first and second trimesters, and post-partum. The women also completed a dietary questionnaire, and post-partum depression was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). We examined the correlations between the frequency of eating fish and EPA, the AA/EPA ratio and IL-6 in the first and second trimesters, and post-partum. We also investigated the correlation between the EPDS and the EPA, the AA/EPA ratio and IL-6.
RESULTS: The frequency of eating fish was significantly correlated with EPA in the second trimester and post-partum and with the AA/EPA ratio in the second trimester. There was no correlation between IL-6 levels and the frequency of eating fish. Post-partum levels of EPA and the AA/EPA ratio were higher in the EPDS >7 group than in the EPDS ≤7 group. In the second trimester, a higher AA/EPA ratio was associated with EPDS >7. IL-6 levels did not differ between the two groups.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, a low dietary intake of omega-3 PUFA during pregnancy was correlated with lower EPA levels, which tended to lead to post-partum…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 80 participants or records.
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