What are the symptoms of an Omega 3 deficiency?

Since omega-3 fatty acids are important in countless processes in the body and almost all organs, a deficiency is often not clearly diagnosed. The possible symptoms can be very diverse and different and are usually very unspecific. This means that each possible symptom can also be due to a different cause.

Most often, a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids manifests itself as muscle weakness, visual disturbances, restlessness, tiredness and skin problems. If there is an increased risk of an omega-3 deficiency, for example due to a vegan or vegetarian diet, this cause should be considered if several of these symptoms occur. A doctor should be consulted to clarify the cause. It is not advisable to try to treat the symptoms by taking omega-3 fatty acids in the form of a dietary supplement without consulting a doctor. Often the complaints are based on other causes that are not discovered and are not treated by taking omega-3 fatty acids.By means of a blood test, the family doctor can prove or disprove the deficiency.

What role do omega 3 fatty acids play in depression?

Based on scientific studies, there are various indications that a lack of omega-3 fatty acids promotes the development of depression and that a sufficient supply is a protective influence against this and other mental illnesses. However, these are by no means direct correlations that allow a statement to be made, such as, for example, that an insufficient supply of omega-3 fatty acids triggers a depression. In one study, for example, it was found that the proportion of omega-3 fatty acids in the cell membranes of depressed patients is lower than in healthy subjects.

However, this is only a correlation and not proof of a cause-and-effect relationship. Even though these and some other results suggest a correlation between the supply of omega-3 fatty acids or the development of depression, it is not possible to conclude that the development of such a disease can be prevented by taking the nutrient with a dietary supplement. In addition, the factors involved in the development of depression are far too extensive and complex for an effect to be expected from influencing a building block such as omega-3 fatty acids. There is no question that a prevailing nutrient deficiency should be compensated by natural or artificial sources.