Omega-3 supplementation lowers inflammation and anxiety in medical students: a randomized controlled trial
Kiecolt-Glaser JK, et al.
Published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity
Methodology
Parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week randomised trial (NCT00519779); 2.5 g/day omega-3 versus a placebo mirroring typical American dietary fatty acids; serial blood samples for stimulated cytokine production plus depression and anxiety symptom scales.
Key Findings
68 medical students were randomised to omega-3 (2.5 g/day, 2085 mg EPA plus 348 mg DHA) or placebo capsules for 12 weeks, with blood sampled in low-stress periods and before exams. Compared with placebo, the omega-3 group showed a 14% decrease in LPS-stimulated interleukin-6 production and a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms, with no significant change in depressive symptoms. Secondary analyses using the plasma omega-6 to omega-3 ratio found that a falling ratio tracked with lower anxiety and reduced stimulated IL-6 and TNF-alpha production.
Conclusions
These data suggest that n-3 supplementation can reduce inflammation and anxiety even among healthy young adults.
Limitations
Healthy young medical students without an anxiety diagnosis, 68 participants over 12 weeks; the ratio-based findings are secondary analyses, and results may not generalise to clinical anxiety or depression.
Supplements Studied
These data suggest that n-3 supplementation can reduce inflammation and anxiety even among healthy young adults.
Outcomes Measured
Omega-3 supplementation can reduce inflammation and anxiety even among healthy young adults.
Omega-3 supplementation lowers inflammation and anxiety in medical students: a randomized controlled trial.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.