Complementary & Alternative Medicine for Mental Health

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The same five sources state that omega-3s may have a mood stabilizing effect and help with
short-term symptoms of bipolar disorder, and may be used as an adjunct to psychotropic
medications, particularly antidepressants.

Other Mental Health Conditions

Experts are researching potential effects of omega-3s on:

 cognitive impairment/dementia,

 perinatal and postpartum depression,

 schizophrenia,

 borderline personality disorder,

 attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),

 seasonal affective disorder,

 violent and impulsive behavior,

 dyslexia,

 self-harm, and

 childhood mood disorders.

The evidence is slim, but these are additional reasons to consider a heart-healthy diet rich in
omega-3s.

SIDE EFFECTS & DRUG INTERACTIONS

Side Effects

 May affect blood sugar levels (if concerned, check with your doctor)

 May worsen low-density lipoprotein (LDL) aka “bad” cholesterol

 May trigger fish allergy

 May elevate levels of Vitamins A and D (in commercial supplements only)

 May cause hypervitamonosis A in rare cases when fish liver oil is used in high doses.

Side effects and drug interactions are the same as eating fish, and appear minimal. The most