Intake of Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Linked to Reduced Depression in Women

In a population-based study involving 3,317 subjects, dietary intakes of fish and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids were found to be inversely associated with depressive symptoms in women. Diet of the subjects was assessed in year 7, and depressive symptoms were assessed in years 10, 15, and 20. Intakes of EPA, DHA, and EPA+DHA were all associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms at year 10, with more pronounced associations found in women. The authors conclude, "Our findings suggest that dietary intakes of fish and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may be inversely associated with chronic depressive symptoms in women."