Omega 3 fatty acids help chase the blues away in postpartum women

Omega 3 fatty acids help chase the blues away in postpartum women

Omega 3 fatty acids from fish or supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of postpartum depression by researchers.

"Baby blues" can manifest through sleeping problems and mood swings, and are mostly temporary. But it can lead to a more serious condition called postpartum depression with symptoms such as feelings of sadness, guilt, eating problems, confusion and suicidal thoughts.

The researchers let 52 pregnant women take either a placebo pill or a fish oil capsule that contains 300 milligrams of DHA, a type of omega 3 fatty acid. The supplement is roughly equal to DHA found in a half serving of salmon.

After delivery, the women participated in follow-up assessments to detect symptoms of postpartum depression.

Those who took the capsules with omega 3 fatty acids had markedly less symptoms of anxiety and postpartum depression compared to those who received the placebo pill.

Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown in other studies to benefit cardiovascular health. Experts are still beginning to explore if they can also improve mood and reduce the risk of conditions like postpartum depression.

Experts recommend that pregnant women talk to their doctors about using supplements and their risks.

Nutritionists and physicians recommend that people get omega 3 fatty acids from their diet instead of supplements. For pregnant women, eating fatty fish such as salmon twice a week may be beneficial for them and their babies.

Eating mackerel, swordfish and shark is not advised because of the risk of mercury poisoning. Walnuts, butternuts, flaxseeds and hazelnuts are also good sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

Posted by George Daniels on Wednesday April 13 2011, 12:04 AM EDT. Ref: WebMD. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News, Health. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0