Higher Intake of Omega 3 Fatty Acids Linked to Positive Mood and Outlook, Study Concludes
Research indicates a more positive outlook and a better regulation of mood may be achieved through higher intake of Omega 3 fatty acids.
According to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Psychosomatic Society, a link exists between intake of omega-3 fatty acids and better mood having a more positive outlook on life. They may also contribute to improving the structure of the areas of the brain associated with emotions.
The study, which involved 55 healthy adults that were questioned about their omega-3 intake, had magnetic resonance images of their brains taken. In the areas of the brain associated with the regulation of mood and emotion, higher intake of omega-3s was significantly linked with a higher volume of brain matter.
The same researchers conducted a previous study in which a link between blood levels of omega-3s and a positive life outlook were revealed. In people with lower omega-3 levels impulsive behavior and a negative outlook were evident. Conversely, people with higher levels were more likely to have a positive mood and outlook.
Based on the results of the new study, the researcher’s say that omega-3s may play a role in the structuring and improvement of mood-regulating areas of the brain.
Omega-3s and omega-6 are the two types of fatty acids that exist. Experts recommend a ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 intake to be between 3:1 and 5:1.
Frank Mangano’s commentary:
Folks, this study clearly provides more evidence that a higher intake of Omega-3 EFAs will have desirable effects on your health. There’s a reason why Omega-3s are called “essential fatty acids” and that’s because they are necessary for health. The body cannot make them so EFAs must be supplied by the diet.
The typical omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in the modern Western diet however is between 10:1 and 30:1, which is not very beneficial to say the least. In fact, it’s extremely low.
These severe deficiencies can lead to a host of problems including an impaired ability to learn and recall information, diabetes, breast cancer, depression, ADHD and heart disease.
Some great sources of omega-3 fatty acids include chia seeds, flax seeds, various nuts and seeds and certain fish oils. One of my personal favorites is salmon. It is important to remember that wild caught salmon is better than farm caught. As an added tip, most salmon from the Pacific ocean is wild and most from the Atlantic ocean is farm caught.
If you’re taking a fish oil supplement, be sure it’s high-quality. I recommend Carlson’s liquid fish and cod liver oil by Carlson Laboratories, which contains high levels of EFAs. Not only is it free of mercury and other contaminants found in fish but it also has a natural and pleasant lemon flavor.
I have no financial ties to Carlson Laboratories and I don’t earn any kickbacks for recommending their product to others. I do so because I believe they offer a superior product.
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Posted: April 8th, 2007 under Fatty Acids.
Comments
Comment from Adam Tijerina
Time April 9, 2007 at 9:54 pm
Hey Frank-
Liked this article on Omega-3s. Based on a recommendation from a Dr. friend of mine, I’ve been eating a handful of walnuts and almonds each day to increase my Omega-3 consumption. And I have very few days where I am not in a good mood. This study shows why that may be the case. Keep up the good work.
Thanks,
Adam Tijerina