Can Fish Oil Reduce Anxiety?

Is it possible that fish oil can reduce anxiety, even in cases where anti-anxiety medications have failed? A growing body of research suggests that omega-3 fish oil can be very beneficial to many anxiety sufferers. While it is too soon to say that the fishy supplement can "cure" anxiety, fish oil research has so far been very encouraging in reducing certain types of anxiety issues.

One recent study that made headlines was published by the peer-reviewed Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology (volume 26, page 661). The study tested the ability of omega-3 fish oil to reduce anxiety in cases where the sufferer had a history of substance abuse. These types of anxiety cases are notoriously difficult to bring under control, especially in the case on long-term substance abusers. But surprisingly, the results of the research showed that omega-3 fish oil, in fairly high doses, was associated with more positive moods, and reduced anxiety.

The three-month study showed a progressive decline in overall anxiety among the participants who took the fish oil capsules daily (half of the study participants took a placebo pill). Additionally, in a three-month follow-up after the study had concluded, subjects who had taken the fish oil on a daily basis exhibited lower overall anxiety scores than those who had taken placebos.

This study is just one of many to emerge in the last few years suggesting that omega-3 fish oil has great benefits for both our physiology and our state of mind. Other research has looked at the effects of omega-3 in cases of depression, seasonal affective disorder, schizophrenia, and other so-called "mood disorders."

While it is clear that more research is needed, many doctors and researchers are already beginning to get excited about the possibilities of using fish oil supplements to control anxiety and other nervous disorders.

But when it comes to taking fish oil supplements, the experts point out that it is extremely important to choose a pharmaceutical grade supplement. The Brands used in scientific research tend to be more expensive than the standard gel caps you'll find at large retail outlets. But they are also produced to much higher standards, often in oxygen-free environments to prevent spoilage and contamination.

Pharmaceutical grade fish oil is also filtered to remove mercury and other potential toxins. This can be especially important in cases where larger dosages of fish oil are being used.

It is also important for each individual to speak to their doctor before beginning a daily regimen which includes omega-3 fish oil supplements. Although they are a natural substance, and generally have only mild side effects, it is important to remember that ANY substance taken on a daily basis can cause physiological changes in the body, and potentially produce unwanted side effects.

So while there is no conclusive evidence at this time that anxiety can be "cured" by using daily fish oil tablets, there is enough research to suggest that anxiety sufferers should be talking to their doctor about fish oil supplements. Because Omega three is also known to have positive effects on the cardiovascular system, joint problems, and other maladies, taking daily fish oil capsules can be a potential win-win situation for anxiety sufferers, and is well worth talking to your doctor about.