Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil and is a major component of neuronal membranes in the brain. Its potential use for supporting or treating Bipolar Mood Disorder stems from observations that populations with higher dietary intake of omega-3s have lower rates of mood disorders and that omega-3s have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have examined the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA, for mood stabilization in bipolar disorder. However, the evidence is mixed.

Some studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation, especially formulations high in EPA rather than DHA, may help reduce depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder, but the effects on mania are less clear. The specific role of DHA is less well established, as most positive findings are attributed to EPA or combined EPA/DHA supplements. For example, a 2016 meta-analysis (Sarris et al., Bipolar Disorders) found only modest benefits for omega-3s in bipolar depression, with little effect on mania, and did not support DHA alone as an effective treatment.

Overall, while there is scientific interest and some evidence supporting the adjunctive use of omega-3s in bipolar disorder, the evidence base is not strong or consistent enough to recommend DHA as a stand-alone or primary treatment. DHA is not a mainstay in clinical guidelines for bipolar disorder, and further high-quality research is needed to clarify its role.

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