Introduction:

Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered essential fatty acids because the body cannot produce them on its own. The 2 main types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docusahexaenoic acid (DHA).

There is some evidence that suggests that taking fish oil supplements may have benefits for mental health!

1. Reduced risk of depression

 Some studies have suggested that people who consume higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids may have a lower risk of depression. These studies show that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements may aid in reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation has been linked to depression and other mood disorders, and studies have found that people with depression have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their blood. Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce this inflammation, which could in turn help reduce the risk of depression.

2. Improved mood

Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to have mood-stabilizing properties, which may help improve symptoms of depression and bipolar disorders. This may be due to fish oil supplements increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with positive mood, such as serotonin and dopamine. Omega-3fatty acids are important components of cell membranes in the brain, and can help regulate the release and uptake of neurotransmitters.

3. Reduced anxiety

Omega-3 fatty acids may have an anti-anxiety effect, which could be helpful for people with anxiety disorders. As mentioned above, fish oil supplements can aid in increasing serotonin and dopamine which may have an anti-anxiety effect as well and in turn reduce anxiety.

4. Improved cognitive function

Some studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve cognitive function, such as memory and processing speed. Neurons, that transmit signals throughout the brain, are better supported in terms of structure and function due to the fish oil supplements.

5. Reduced risk of dementia

There is some evidence to suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Fish oil supplements aid in cognitive function by reducing inflammation in the brain. Chronic inflammation has been linked to cognitive decline and may contribute to the development of conditions such as Alzheimer's and dementia. By reducing this inflammation, fish oil supplements may help protect brain cells and improve their function, which could help improve cognitive function. This in turn can reduce chances of dementia or Alzheimer's disease later in life.