Publications Search

Abstract

Title: Is low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids associated with depression?
Author: Hakkarainen R, Partonen T, Haukka J, Virtamo J, Albanes D, Lonnqvist J
Journal: Am J Psychiatry 161(3):567-569
Year: 2004
Month: March

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study examined the association between the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids and low mood, major depression, and suicide. METHOD: A total of 29,133 men ages 50 to 69 years participated in a population-based trial in Finland. The intake of fatty acids and fish consumption were calculated from a diet history questionnaire. Self-reported depressed mood was recorded three times annually, data on hospital treatments due to a major depressive disorder were derived from the National Hospital Discharge Register, and suicides were identified from death certificates. RESULTS: There were no associations between the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids or fish consumption and depressed mood, major depressive episodes, or suicide. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids showed no association with low mood level.