A low intake of omega-3 fatty acids may be a contributing factor in the increased incidence of inflammatory diseases around the globe.
Research has found significant positive associations between diets high in nutritional quality and superior academic performance in children and adolescents.
Ageing is naturally associated with decreases in cognitive function and a growing body of evidence suggests that age-related inflammation may contribute to these changes.3 Only one in 1000 older adults exhibit no evidence of cognitive deterioration.
Evidence linking omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies to mood disorders was demonstrated in two recent studies, with diminished EPA and DHA levels being suggested as modifiable risk factors or prodromal biomarkers for depressive illness in adolescents.[1,2]
It has been suggested that supplements containing krill oil may be more effective at increasing the levels of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in red blood cells – the Omega-3 Index – than fish oil.
There is chronic, worldwide lack of funding available for research into the impact of diet and lifestyle on mood, behaviour and mental health. Prof Felice Jacka has pioneered an innovative program of research that examines how individuals’ diets and other lifestyle behaviours interact with the risk for mental health problems.
Improvements in brain white matter may be a good predictive measure of omega 3 benefit in depression.
Evidence shows that certain complementary medicines hold great value in the treatment of mood disorders. We take a look at some of the recent research.