Review Backs Omega 3 For Post Natal Depression
Thursday, 28 March, 2019

Review Backs Omega 3 For Post Natal Depression

A recent review of 75 studies investigating the risk factors for postpartum depression found that women who are at risk could be at higher risk if their Omega 3 levels are lowered.

 

 

“The literature shows that there could be a link between pregnancy, Omega 3 and the chemical reaction that enables serotonin, a mood regulator, to be released into our brains” explained the review’s leader Gabriel Shapiro of the University of Montreal.

As Omega 3 is transferred from the mother to the foetus as it develops and later via breastfeeding, the mother’s Omega 3 levels decrease during pregnancy and remain lowered for at least six weeks following birth. Without adequate intake of Omega 3 to counter this, levels of Omega 3 will be significantly lowered in the mother and could result in higher risk of postpartum depression.

Whilst this study gives an indication as to the link between Omega 3 levels and PPD, further research would be needed to clarify the link and the specific reasons for it.

  

Reference

  
‘Emerging Factors for Postpartum depression: Serotonin Transporter Gentype and Omega 3 Fatty Acid Status’ Gabriel D Shapiro, William D Fraser, jean R Seguin

Share This:

Keep Reading

We’ve Gut a Feeling

We’ve all been there: your guts feel uneasy, unsettled, or downright upset, but you don’t know what the cause is...

Eat the Season!

Some of the healthiest vegetables to enjoy this winter     The change in season brings with it varying weather...

Improved and More Complete Digestion

From heartburn to excessive gas, constipation, and stomach-ache, when you experience problems with your digestion, the symptoms can fast become...