Depressed? Eat a Balanced Diet Topped with Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Last week, we were able to consume the recommended 2 servings of fish a week. I had three, because I had to take care of the left-overs one time. Unwittingly, I was doing something to ease my black mood, possibly more than the piece of chocolate that served as my comfort food.

A new study published in the December 2006 issue of Nutrition & Dietetics has shown that the combination of a nutritious diet, daily fish oil supplements and/or three oily fish meals, like salmon, sardines or fresh tuna, a week can help alleviate depression symptoms. These findings come from a review of data in all existing literature related to dietary manipulation, according to the researchers.

“We have found evidence of the potential therapeutic benefits of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid incorporation in the diet which may contribute to an eventual recovery in the long term. This is definitely a valuable add-on to the psychosocial and pharmacological treatment therapy depression suffers undergo”.

Note that the emphasis is first to have a well-balanced diet. The health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids come only secondary, something that enhances the positive effects of eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.