Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Bipolar Disorder

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in marine or plant sources, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil. Preliminary studies suggest that people with Reference bipolar disorder Opens New Window who take omega-3 fatty acids have a significantly longer period in which their mood is stable with no episodes of depression or mania (remission).^{Reference 1}

There are few, if any, negative side effects of taking omega-3 fatty acids. Loose stools were reported most often. Researchers think that omega-3 fatty acids may block signals in the central nervous system that trigger depression and mania. But more research needs to be conducted before there is sufficient evidence that omega-3 fatty acids improve the course of bipolar disorder.^{Reference 2}

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