Omega 3s May Prevent Psychosis

I read a 2010 study on Omega-3 fatty acids--found in some foods--that it can help prevent onset of psychotic disorders in high-risk populations. 

The study suggests that a common supplement that we use for heart disease and stroke prevention may also prevent the progression of psychotic illness in those who have what is called prodromal symptoms (or what I call “pre-psychotic symptoms”).

What are pre-psychotic symptoms?

Early symptoms may include:

• hearing voices
• having some unusual sensory experiences
• mood disorders
• disorganization in surroundings, speech or actions
• unusual motor activities or posturing

My opinion with this study is that it is certainly worth trying as we all have heard how good Omega-3s are for the body and brain.

I think too often we are inclined to jump to powerful drugs earlier than is necessary.

If you're ready to take in more Omega-3s, the NIH published a short list of foods that can help:

• Fish and other seafood (especially cold-water fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines)
• Nuts and seeds (such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts)
• Avocados
• Spinach
• Plant oils (such as flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil)

If you're looking for a supplement, you can take capsules of fish oil, krill oil, cod liver oil and algal oil (a vegetarian source that comes from algae). 

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.