Can Seafood Consumption Help Reduce Childhood Depression?

Significantly more depressed children who received omega-3 fatty acids achieved remission than those who received placebo.

The prevalence of major depression in school-age children is 2% to 4%. Clinicians and parents would welcome a natural therapeutic intervention for childhood depression. Studies in adults with mood disorders have shown a beneficial effect of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish (see Am J Psychiatry 2006; 163:969). Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the primary marine-based long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the omega-3 group. To assess the potential therapeutic benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in childhood depression, 28 children with their first major depression (mean age, 10 years) were randomized to receive either omega-3 or placebo capsules daily for 16 weeks. The average duration of depression prior to stu…

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Can Seafood Consumption Help Reduce Childhood Depression?

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Reviewing Author