Fish Oils for Anxiety Relief

Fish oil and fish can provide significant relief for people experiencing anxiety and depression. Fish along with fish oil contains large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which help with proper functioning of the brain. These oils also help with improving mood. The omega-3 fatty acids that are contained in fish or fish oil are EPA or eicosapentaenoic acid, and DHA or docosahexaenoic acid. When these levels are low in the body, some people can experience depression and anxiety. Both fish and fish oil contain large amounts of both DHA and EPA, making them ideal for treating anxiety and depression disorders.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Because the human body does not make omega-3 fatty acids, it is critical to obtain them through other sources, namely through diet or supplements. The best available sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish along with fish oil. Eating a balanced diet that contains large amounts of fish such as salmon, halibut and tuna will go a long way in increasing levels of omega-3 in the body. Omega-3 fatty acids help the brain function better and more efficiently while improving memory and overall mood.

Harvard Medical Studies

• According to the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, a lack of omega-3 fatty acids affects how our brain functions. Studies there have found that people who suffer from anxiety and depression generally have lower levels of EPA in their blood.

  In addition, omega-3 fatty acids have an impact on the actual development of the brain during pregnancy. DHA is essential during pregnancy to ensure proper brain development of the infant.

Vegetarian Diet and Other Concerns

• For those who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet, it is not okay to eat fish. To supplement the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, opt for flaxseeds, soybeans, walnuts, and in particular, flaxseed oil. These foods contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids to ease anxiety.

  Be aware that the consumption of alcohol, caffeine and nicotine has a negative impact on the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body. This can be a contributing factor in low levels of DHA, which may result in anxiety and depression. Therefore it is important to increase the intake of omega-3 fatty acids whether in foods or supplements to offset any mitigating effects from smoking, drinking or caffeinated beverages.