Why Fish Oil May Make You Feel Better
Researchers have known for some time that people who have low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids—the kind found in fatty fish–are more likely to have a negative outlook and be more impulsive. Conversely, those with higher blood levels of omega-3s are found to be more agreeable and less likely to report mild or moderate symptoms of depression.
Now, a new study may help to explain why this is so. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that people who had high levels of omega-3 fatty acid intake had higher volumes of grey matter in areas of the brain associated with emotional arousal and regulation.
This finding suggests that omega-3s may promote structural improvement in areas of the brain related to mood and emotion regulation, the researchers say. However, they note that more research is needed to determine whether fish consumption actually causes changes in the cell structure of the brain. (Conklin, SM, et al Psychosomatic Medicine 2007; 69(1):A-15, 1734.)
