Fish Oil May Deter Schizophrenia

Filed in All, Schizophrenia on February 19, 2010 with 1 comment

omega_3“Fat” is a bad word in our society, but omega-3 fatty acids are one of the superstars when it comes to improving nerve conduction. High levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the brain also reduce neuroinflammation, a factor commonly seen in people with depression. Cell membranes consist partly of omega-3s, which make it easier for the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine to pass through cell membranes. This is an essential fatty acid, which means it is not produced by the body and must be obtained via foodstuffs or through supplementation. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include: salmon, tuna, cod, mackerel, sardines, walnuts and flaxseed. One to two grams daily of fish oil as a supplement to a balanced diet is advisable, especially for those susceptible to depression.

A new study suggests that fish oil may also be a possible deterrent to schizophrenia. One theory supporting this hypothesis is that those with schizophrenia don’t process fatty acids properly, leading to damaged brain cells. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil could possibly help brain cells to repair and subsequently stabilize.

Researchers are starting a large international study in eight cities with the goal of replicating their findings. These findings appear in this month’s Archives of General Psychiatry.

Joseph Wegmann, R.Ph., LCSW is a licensed clinical pharmacist and a clinical social worker with more than thirty years of experience in the field of psychopharmacology. His diverse professional background in psychopharmacology and counseling affords him a unique perspective on medication management issues. In addition to consulting with numerous psychiatric facilities, he has presented psychopharmacology seminars to thousands of clinicians in 46 states. Joe has also served as a Clinical Director of Pharmacy Services at a major metropolitan area hospital and as a Regional Director of Hospital Services for Premier Healthcare Corporation. He has served as Adjunct Professor of Psychopharmacology in the graduate School of Social Work at Southern University of New Orleans for 16 years and maintains an active psychotherapy practice specializing in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Joe is the author of Psychopharmacology: Straight Talk on Mental Health Medications, published by PESI, Inc.

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  1. alfredoe says:
    February 19, 2010 at 3:20 pm

    Hi All, in order to get most of the benefits of omega 3 fish oil you should take the proper dosage (at least 3.000 mg of fish oil per day) and lower your omega 6 ingestion (omega 6 takes the enzymes we need for digestion from omega 3)

    For mood disorders usually high omega 3 dosages are required, 6.000-10.000 mg per day of fish oil

    There are more than 50 benefits of fish oil but I consider the most important its anti inflammatory effects.

    Read more at http://www.omega-3-fish-oil-wonders.com/fish-oil-benefits.html

    Best wishes

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