Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Bipolar Disorder

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils and flaxseed oil supplements have been recommended as for people with bipolar disorder. Studies have shown that increased intake of Omega-3 in fish oil is linked to greater volume in areas of the brain, which is associated with mood elevation and regulation and a reduction in depression. Doctors may recommend supplements to people with bipolar disorder, including flaxseed oil and Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils.

These are posts written by members about their personal experiences with using the nutritional supplement Omega-3 in the treatment of their manic-depressive illness.

Material may have been edited for spelling, grammar or clarity.

• • I have been taking omega-3 fish oils at 6 grams/day for approximately two months. I have not yet noticed any effects positive or negative. I'm considering increasing to 10 grams/day as my psychiatrist informs me that seems to be the more beneficial range if I can tolerate the gastric side effects. —Nan

• • I have been using fish oil and melatonin for several months and the fish oil really works. —Kathy
  • My loved-one was taking fish oils and it seemed to work for him. I haven't bought any for about a month and I have seen my loved-one go down hill. I think I'll buy some more. It really seemed to help. —Pattie-40
  • I have started taking Omega-3 fish oils to help me with my bipolar disorder. I am currently taking a total of 9000 mg per day broken up into three doses. —Phil
  • I wanted to try something different since I was having no luck with the different meds I was taking. I've been taking 6000 mg of fish oil (three pills am and pm). As far as I can tell, the fish oil (after about two months) seems to control my hypomania pretty well. It seems to have the same effect as the Tegretol I was taking—it flattens out my highs. I still have a lot of problem with depression though.
    • Another added benefit of the fish oil is cost ... I think you can't beat the price. I also seem to have no adverse side effects with the fish oil. —Sherry

• • I am also taking fish oil, but I think I'll try flaxseed oil. My doctor said either one is good, but I seem to taste a fishy taste sometimes. —Marcie
  • It might be a good idea to have some sugar-free peppermints on hand; otherwise, your boyfriend may say your breath is like a rainbow trout on a crisp spring morning. — Scooby