Omega-3s and postpartum depression
Though studies have yet to confirm it, one promising use of omega-3s may be the treatment of postpartum depression. Evidence shows that women who develop postpartum depression tend to have an omega-3 deficiency, and because pharmaceutical antidepressants can be harmful to the fetus and child (through breast-feeding), physicians are hopeful that omega-3s will prove to be an effective preventive treatment during pregnancy.
Much is still unknown about the link between omega-3 fatty acids and depression, but in the meantime, adding these fats to your diet can't hurt. (An important exception: people with certain blood conditions, especially those taking blood thinners.)
How to get omega-3s in your diet
The best way to get omega-3s is directly from the source (foods such as salmon, halibut, and walnuts), but fish-oil- and flaxseed-oil-based supplements are also available in both capsule and liquid form. Experts recommend taking anywhere from 0.5 to 2 grams a day, although the FDA warns that the daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids from all sources should not exceed 3 grams.
But people experiencing symptoms of depression shouldn't rely solely on omega-3s for relief. "This is still a relatively unproven treatment for mood disorders," says Dr. Mischoulon. "For general health purposes, people can proceed on their own with a supplement. But if you're looking to treat depression—even occasional depression—getting a psychiatric evaluation and proceeding under a physician's supervision is the most prudent way to go."
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