Study Shows Omega-3 Benefits for Psychotic Disorders

March 1, 2011 | In Health

A clinical trial from researchers at the Medical University of Vienna has found that omega-3 supplementation may help to reduce the likelihood of high-risk individuals developing psychotic disorders. Whilst there is now an abundance of scientific research linking the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA to improved behaviour and cognitive function, this is the first study of its kind to show benefits of omega-3’s in a group at high-risk of psychosis.

The researchers recruited 76 people at ultra-high risk of progression to psychosis. Study participants were randomly assigned to receive daily placebo or 1.2g fish oil supplements (700mg EPA, 480mg EPA). Results showed that after 12 weeks, only 4.9% of the group taking omega-3 supplements had progressed to psychotic disorder, compared with 27.5% of the placebo group.

The researchers speculated that the benefit may be due to changes in cell membranes produced by the omega 3 fatty acids and interactions with neurotransmitter systems in the brain.

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