Does taking omega-3 supplements reduce the risk of having depression or anxiety? Probably not
Abstract
Findings from observational studies have led to suggestions that dietary omega-3 supplementation can lower the risk of depression and anxiety; however, results of a recent meta-analysis of randomised trials prove otherwise .
Depression is the leading course of disability, and many patients with depression also suffer from anxiety symptoms.1 Research has shown that people with depression have a lower level of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) compared with the general population,2 and data from observational studies suggest that dietary supplementation with long chain fatty acids (PUFA) can lower the risk of developing …
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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