EPA helps relieve psychological distress in women.

A recent issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported the outcome of a Canadian clinical trial that found a beneficial effect for the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in middle-aged women suffering from psychological distress. *

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Michel Lucas and his associates at Laval University enrolled 120 women between the ages of 40 and 55 with moderate to severe psychological distress, which can sometimes occur during the menopausal transition. The group was randomized to receive EPA in divided doses, or a placebo daily for eight weeks.

After excluding women undergoing major depression, psychological distress among those who received EPA was found to have improved significantly after eight weeks compared with subjects who received the placebo.

"Because EPA and DHA supplements have beneficial outcomes on cardiovascular disease, have no serious side effects, and might be helpful in reducing hot flashes, research should be encouraged in middle-aged women with psychological distress and depressive symptoms," the authors stated.

Reference

* Lucas M, Asselin G, Merette C, Poulin MJ, Dodin S. Ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid for the treatment of psychological distress and depressive symptoms in middle-aged women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Feb;89(2): 641-51.