Skip to main content

Increasing Omega-3 Levels May Help Lower Risk of Postpartum Depression

By Sponsored

Women may be able to decrease the likeliness of postpartum depression by increasing the amount of omega-3 in their diets during pregnancy. Researchers from Montreal, Canada have found a link between omega-3 levels and women suffering from postnatal depression.

According to the research, published in the current issue of the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, women are at the highest risk of depression during their child-bearing years and the likeliness hits a peak during the first year after having a baby.

The study authors found a link between omega-3 fats and serotonin. “The literature shows that there could be a link between pregnancy, omega-3 fats and the chemical reaction that enables serotonin, a mood regulator, to be released into our brains,” according to lead author Gabriel Shapiro.

Pregnant women have lower levels of omega-3 because all of the nutrients are transferred from the mother to the baby during pregnancy. Even after the baby is born, omega-3 levels in the mother are still considerably lower because the fatty acids are being transferred to the baby through breast milk.

Shapiro said their review of 75 articles suggested omega-3 fats and the serotonin gene work in tandem with each other to affect the same part of the brain.

According to the Vancouver Sun, “A woman’s serotonin levels wane during pregnancy because tryptophan, a chemical used to make serotonin, is needed by the placenta to support the developing fetus.”

The team hopes to prove that omega-3 fatty acids can counteract this drop in serotonin production, by boosting activity of the 5-HTT gene.

Shapiro notes that more research is needed before a conclusion can be drawn. He says if a woman is concerned about nutrition, she should consult with her doctor.

Source: Canadian Journal of Psychiatry

 

Sponsored

Contributor

Angela is the editor of Activebeat and is an avid health enthusiast. She’s our source for great fitness and exercise tips and is dedicated to bringing you the breaking news stories each day. From recalls and outbreaks to FDA announcements and alerts, she’ll keep you up-to-date with the most important health news every day.

Diet and Nutrition News & Advice

Explore

Rapid Weight Loss is Just a Bite Away: Discover the Power of Keto Gummies
By Chris Brown Diet and Nutrition News & Advice

Rapid Weight Loss is Just a Bite Away: Discover the Power of Keto Gummies

Have you ever wished you could lose weight with a mere chew of a gummy? If yes, then brace yourself for a tasty revelation – Keto Gummies! It’s weight loss simplified, without giving up on your love for sweets. When used alongside a ketogenic meal plan and a well balanced fitness routine, Keto Gummies could […]

Read More about Rapid Weight Loss is Just a Bite Away: Discover the Power of Keto Gummies

3 min read

Revolutionize Your Diet: The Science-Backed Benefits of Personalized Nutrition/Diet Plans
By Clarissa Vanner Diet and Nutrition News & Advice

Revolutionize Your Diet: The Science-Backed Benefits of Personalized Nutrition/Diet Plans

Looking to take your health to the next level? Discover the science-backed benefits of personalized nutrition and diet plans. Plus, learn how to get started and make the most of your plan to crush your health goals today.

Read More about Revolutionize Your Diet: The Science-Backed Benefits of Personalized Nutrition/Diet Plans

5 min read

The Mayo Clinic Diet Weight Loss Solution: How and Why It Works
By Clarissa Vanner Diet and Nutrition News & Advice

The Mayo Clinic Diet Weight Loss Solution: How and Why It Works

Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and unsustainable weight loss programs? Discover the Mayo Clinic Diet — a research-backed weight loss solution that emphasizes healthy eating habits and lifestyle changes to achieve sustainable results.

Read More about The Mayo Clinic Diet Weight Loss Solution: How and Why It Works

4 min read