DHA Fish Oil: Nature's Anti-Depressant by Richard Pagano

Depression is an illness which is often misdiagnosed or even ignored. Stress, in all of its complex modern-day forms, is a primary factor in the increase in cases of depression. Health researchers have focused recently on another potential cause for this increase: the lack of omega 3 fatty acids, including DHA, in our diet. Lack of this essential nutrient is not the sole cause of depression, but deficiency may leave us more vulnerable to the negative impact of everyday stress. There is evidence that a good dha fish oil supplement can have a positive impact.

The brain and other components of the central nervous system are largely made up of DHA, so we need this nutrient on a regular basis to sustain brain health. Fish oils, derived mainly from cold water fish (salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines) containing significant quantities of DHA are believed to improve brain and nervous system health. Most diets contain too much brain-damaging hydrogenated and trans fats and not enough brain-healthy omega 3 fatty acids. A quality dha fish oil supplement helps replace these bad fats and ensures that our brain tissue is replenished.

In addition to increased rates of depression, low levels of DHA have been linked with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Alzheimer's disease, bipolar disorder and even post-partum depression. DHA is essential for the growth and functional development of the brain in infants and is absolutely required for normal brain function in adults. Various studies have demonstrated improvement in symptoms of depression with an increase in consumption of DHA. Even in mid-life, proper supplementation is believed to be one of the most effective ways to protect against age-associated and accelerated forms of mental decline and memory impairments.

To ensure proper nutrition, ask your doctor or nutritionist about taking a once-daily dha fish oil capsule. Published studies have shown a link between coronary artery disease and depression--so it isn't just about mood swings or feeling depressed. It's about brain and heart health.

Article Source: http://goarticles.com/article/DHA-Fish-Oil-Nature-s-Anti-Depressant/2025859/