Reduce menopausal depression and hot flushes by 50% with omega-3 fish oil
Added 06.02.2009
If you are going through menopause you may find relief from fish oil. According to studies, one of the omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), can significantly reduce depression and hot flushes - two common symptoms of menopause.
Fluctuating hormonal levels, biological changes in the body and just dealing with the whole stress of menopause often lead to depression and mood swings. A recent scientific study involving menopausal women has found that depression can be reduced by 50 percent following supplementation with just one gram of EPA. According to the study, this had a similar effect as with an antidepressant drug, but without any side effects.
Similarly, EPA was beneficial for hot flushes. Participants in a study had an average of 2.8 hot flushes a day before supplementation. After supplementation with omega-3, the frequency of hot flushes was cut to almost half (1.58 hot flushes a day).
References:
Lucas, M. & all. "Effects of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on hot flashes and quality of life among middle-aged women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial." Menopause. Vol. 16. Published online ahead of print. November 20, 2008.
Dr. Bo Nielsen's comments:
We have known for many years that fish oil improves your health in many ways. This study shows that two of the most uncomfortable symptoms of menopause, depression and hot flashes, can be reduced by 50% simply by taking a few capsules of fish oil (omega-3). The alternative is traditional hormone replacement therapy, which may unfortunately, increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer.
