Regular and long-term intake of omega-3 fatty acid-rich cod liver oil may protect people from symptoms of depression, says a large study from Norway. The study, found that the prevalence of depressive symptoms was 29 per cent lower in regular cod liver oil users than the rest of the population.

Numerous observational studies and uncontrolled trials have reported the benefits of fish oils and omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA on the behaviour and learning, especially in kids, as well for improving the symptoms of depression.

Omega-3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) consumed predominantly in the diet from fish, nuts and seeds. The fish oil PUFAs include Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenioc acid (DHA).

EPA is proposed to function by increasing blood flow in the body. It is also suggested to affect hormones and the immune system, both of which have a direct effect on brain function. DHA, on the other hand, is involved in the membrane of ion channels in the brain, making it easier for them to change shape and transit electrical signals.

Source: Journal of Affective Disorders
August 2007, Volume 101, Issues 1-3, Pages 245-249
“Associations between cod liver oil use and symptoms of depression: The Hordaland Health Study”
Authors: M. Baroy Raeder, V.M. Steen, S. Emil Vollset and I. Bjelland

Source