Omega-3s May Raise Moods For Long Term

Omega-3 fatty acids are associated with increased gray matter volume in areas of the brain commonly linked to mood and behavior, according to a University of Pittsburgh study.

The nutrient is found in nuts and fatty fish such as salmon.

Animal research has shown that raising omega-3 intake leads to structural brain changes. In a study last year, the same researcher, Dr. Sarah Conklin, reported that people who had lower blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids were more likely to have a negative outlook and be more impulsive.

Those with higher blood levels were found to be more agreeable and less likely to report mild or moderate symptoms of depression. The new study looked at the physical structure of the brain, not just moods.

The increased brain mass was seen in the bilateral anterior cingulate cortex, the right amygdala and the right hippocampus.

While the finding suggests that omega-3s may promote structural improvement in areas of the brain related to mood and emotion regulation -- the same areas where gray matter is reduced in people who have mood disorders such as major depressive disorder -- investigators noted that more research is needed to determine whether fish consumption actually causes changes in the brain.