Effect of Plant Sources of Omega‐3 PUFA on Mood Status in Healthy Subjects: A Cross Over Feeding Trial

Abstract

Study ObjectiveThe high prevalence of mood disturbance and inadequate efficacy of current antidepressants necessitates the search for more effective treatments. Omega‐3 PUFA may provide one such option. The aim of this paper is to test if changes in the ratio of dietary n6:n3 FA, and/or use of EPA/DHA algae supplement, is associated with changes in mood disturbance in healthy adults.MethodsThis was a tightly controlled, factorial design, randomized feeding trial (n=24) evaluating the effects of dietary intake of two n‐6:n‐3 PUFA ratios on mood states. The n‐6: n‐3 ratios of 10:1 and 2:1 in experimental diets were provided from plant sources. Subjects were randomized into 8‐week, cross‐over diet sequences where each subject consumed three of four dietary treatments: the two diets, with/without algae supplements. Subjects completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaires at the end of each 8‐week study period.ResultsSubject distress scores were within normal range throughout the duration of the study period. There was no statistically significant difference in DASS or POMS scores between the four diets. However there was a consistent tendency towards increased distress with the addition of algae supplement with summation of mood disturbance reaching significance. Change in dietary n‐6:n‐3 FA ratio did not play a role in mood disturbance. However, intake of EPA/DHA algae supplement resulted in increased overall mood disturbance as measured by DASS and POMS.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that EPA/DHA supplements may not be advisable for healthy adults.Support or Funding InformationFunded by the Center for Health and Nutrition Research, University of California, Davis