EPA but not DHA appears to be responsible for the efficacy of omega-3 LC-PUFA supplementation in depression: evidence from an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Abstract
Background: Epidemiological and case-control data suggest that increased dietary intake of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (v 3L C-PUFA) may be of benefit in depression. However, the results of randomized controlled trials are mixed and controversy exists as to whether either eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or both are responsible for the reported benefits. Objective: To update a recently published meta-analysis (Martins JG, J Am Coll Nutr, 2009; 28: 525-42) of double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized controlled trials examining the effect of v 3L C-PUFA supplementation where depressive symptoms were a reported outcome. The differential effectiveness of EPA versus DHA has been reassessed through meta-regression and subgroup analyses. Design: Studies were selected using the PubMed database on the basis of the following criteria: i) randomized design; ii) placebo controlled; iii) use of an v 3L C-PUFA preparation containing DHA, EPA or both where the relative amounts of each fatty acid could be quantified; and iv) reporting sufficient statistics on scores of a recognizable measure of depressive symptoms. Results: 370 studies wereidentified (22/01/2011) of which35 metthe aboveinclusion criteria(7 additional to Martins JG, 2009) and were therefore included for analysis. Using a random effects model, overall standardized mean depression scores were reduced in response to v 3L C-PUFA supplementation as compared with placebo…
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