Ácidos grasos omega-3 y depresiónuna revisión sistemática

Résumé

Introduction and objectives Omega-3 acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have to be provided in the diet, mostly being present in oily fish. Omega-3 fatty acids are mostly found in neuronal lipid membranes, providing them with stability, as well as optimising synaptic communication. A diet low in omega-3 acids, which is a recent trend in Western eating habits, could be a risk factor for the development of depression. This review attempts to assess the influence of omega-3 fatty in the prevention and treatment of depression. Material and methods Neurobiological, epidemiological and clinical data of the most important publications on this subject are presented, paying particular attention to the results obtained in the different clinical meta-analyses conducted. Conclusions Omega-3 fatty acids may currently appear as an adjuvant agent for the treatment of depression, with this recommendation being endorsed by several meta-analyses that involve a high level of evidence, which has led to their use being contemplated in clinical guidelines or recommendations by experts. Some meta-analyses found superiority of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) over docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and recommend a higher proportion of the former if omega-3 fatty acids are chosen as adjuvants agents in antidepressant treatment.