Omega-3 supplementation can improve psychophysiological symptoms of PTSD
By michellesimmons // 2019-03-08
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A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders revealed that post-trauma supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids may be effective for secondary prevention of psychophysiological symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychophysiological symptoms, such as a pounding heart, are known to be common complications of PTSD.
  • For the study, researchers from Japan recruited 83 accident survivors to determine whether omega-3 fatty acids have a beneficial effect on preventing psychophysiological symptoms like increased heart rate caused by PTSD.
  • In conducting the study, the Japanese researchers gave the participants either omega-3 fatty acids -- 1,470 milligrams (mg) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and 147 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) -- or placebo within 10 days of the accidental injury.
  • The supplementation period lasted for 12 weeks.
  • After 12 weeks, the participants performed script-driven imagery of their traumatic experience as the researchers monitored their heart rate and skin conductance.
  • The researchers found that heart rate during rest and script-driven imagery was substantially lower in those who took omega-3 fatty acids than those who took the placebo.
From these findings, it can be concluded that supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids might help improve psychophysiological symptoms of PTSD. To read more studies on the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on mental health, visit Omega3.news. Journal Reference: Matsumura K, Noguchi H, Nishi D, Hamazaki K, Hamazaki T, Matsuoka YJ. EFFECTS OF OMEGA-3 POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS ON PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER IN ACCIDENT SURVIVORS: A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIAL. Journal of Affective Disorders. 15 December 2017; 224: 27-31. DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2016.05.054
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