Insufficient omega-3 fatty acid in diet may cause harmful consequences on synaptic functions and emotional behaviours, a new study found. These fatty acids are “essential” lipids because the body cannot synthesise them from new. They must therefore be provided through food and their dietary balance is essential to maintain optimal brain functions. Researchers from Inserm and INRA and their collaborators in Spain collaboration, studied mice fed on a diet low in omega-3 fatty acid. They found that omega-3 deficiency disturbed neuronal communication specifically. This neuronal dysfunction was accompanied by depressive behaviours.
The results can now corroborate clinical and epidemiological studies which have revealed associations between an omega-3/omega-6 imbalance and mood disorders. To determine if the omega-3 deficiency is responsible for these neuropsychiatric disorders additional studies are, of course, required.