Researchers have noticed that diets high in omega-6 fatty acids, but low in omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish oil), may increase the risk of depression or other mental health problems. The typical American diet fits this description, with a low intake of fish. Early studies suggest that taking fish oil may help antidepressants work better and that fish oil may improve the symptoms of bipolar disorder. However, fish oil seems to only be helpful for the depression symptoms of bipolar disorder (not mania symptoms) and may actually increase the risk of mania symptoms.

 

It is too early to tell. Studies with mice and rats have sometimes shown that fish oil (or at least the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil) may have a role in weight loss and fat loss, but human studies in this area are lacking. It is too early to tell if taking fish oil can help people lose weight. It is important to remember that fish oil supplements are not free of calories or fat.

 

Very early evidence suggests that fish oil may help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other developmental problems, although you should not give a child fish oil supplements without the approval of the child's healthcare provider.

 

Early studies also suggest that fish oil may decrease the risk of recurrent miscarriages in women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Also, fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which may be important for brain and eye development when taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, keep in mind that some fish (and some fish oil supplements) may contain heavy metals and other toxins that are especially dangerous for pregnant women. Do not take fish oil during pregnancy without checking with your healthcare provider, who can direct you to a supplement that is safe for pregnant women (see Pregnancy and Fish Oil for more information).