Evidence supporting the use of: Fish oil
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

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

Fish oil, rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been investigated for its potential role in supporting neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The scientific rationale is based on omega-3’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, as neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are implicated in PD pathogenesis. Animal studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation may reduce dopaminergic neuron loss in PD models.

In humans, evidence is limited and mixed. Some small clinical trials suggest that omega-3 supplementation may improve certain non-motor symptoms of PD, such as depression, but robust data on motor symptom improvement or disease progression are lacking. For example, a 2008 pilot trial (da Silva et al., 2008) suggested that omega-3 supplementation combined with antidepressants had a positive effect on depressive symptoms in PD patients. However, larger, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically addressing fish oil’s effects on core PD symptoms are lacking.

Overall, while there is a plausible biological mechanism and some preliminary positive findings—especially regarding mood symptoms—the scientific evidence supporting fish oil’s role in directly treating or slowing Parkinson’s Disease remains weak. Its use is not supported by tradition in the context of PD specifically. Further research is needed before fish oil can be routinely recommended as a supportive therapy for Parkinson’s Disease.

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