IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS AND MENTAL HEALTH: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

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Dr. Sunit Kumar

Abstract

This paper explores the primary food sources of Omega-3 fatty acids available in India, their nutritional content, and their role in promoting overall health along with mental health. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and support brain development. Indian dietary patterns primarily include plant-based sources of Omega-3, making it important to examine their sufficiency in comparison to Western diets, which include more fish-derived Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have attracted considerable attention due to their potential effects on mental health. With the increasing global prevalence of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, new therapeutic avenues are being explored. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients found in fish and other marine sources, and emerging evidence suggests that they may play a role in alleviating symptoms of these mental health conditions. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of omega-3's biological mechanisms, clinical evidence, and therapeutic potential for mental health. While promising, further research is required to clarify the optimal dosing, specific populations that may benefit, and long-term effects of omega-3 supplementation.

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