Topic Overview
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in marine or plant sources, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil. A few studies suggest that adding omega-3 fatty acids to medicine (such as lithium) can help reduce the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder in some people. Omega-3 fatty acids don't seem to have any effect on the manic symptoms of bipolar disorder. And omega-3 fatty acids alone are not a good treatment for bipolar disorder. They are not a replacement for medicine or other therapy used to treat bipolar disorder.footnote 1, footnote 2
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 help support the membranes of brain cells, making it easier for them to send signals to one another, which may reduce the likelihood of depressive symptoms.footnote 1
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Current as of: May 28, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD, FAAFP - Family Medicine
Donald Sproule, MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Christine R. Maldonado, PhD - Behavioral Health
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Current as of: May 28, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Patrice Burgess, MD, FAAFP - Family Medicine & Donald Sproule, MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry & Christine R. Maldonado, PhD - Behavioral Health