Research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology (2006; 26(6):661–665) examined omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in a small group of individuals with anxiety disorders and a history of substance abuse. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 24 participants received either a placebo or a supplement containing EPA and DHA over a three-month period.
Anxiety symptoms were evaluated using standardized questionnaires. Participants receiving omega-3 supplementation showed a progressive reduction in anxiety scores over the study period, while no comparable change was observed in the placebo group. Given the small sample size and the specific population studied, the findings were considered preliminary.
Given the small sample size and the specific population studied, the findings were considered preliminary. Because omega-3 fatty acids can influence inflammatory pathways in the brain, this may be one of the mechanisms behind their effect on mood and anxiety.
