Breakthrough Study: Omega-3 Proven to Cut Aggression by 28%
Research Highlights the Role of Fish Oil in Improving Mental Health and Reducing Aggressive Behavior.
Watan-For those seeking a calmer life, a recent study conducted last year revealed that Omega-3 fatty acids, available as dietary supplements in fish oil capsules and known for improving mental and physical health, may also help reduce aggressive behavior.
Aggressive Behavior
According to the journal Aggression and Violent Behavior, as reported by Science Alert, these findings are not baseless. Omega-3 supplements were previously linked to preventing schizophrenia, and aggressive behavior toward society is thought to partially stem from nutritional deficiencies. In other words, diet can influence brain chemistry.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania based their findings on smaller studies examining the effects of Omega-3 supplements on aggression. Their meta-analysis reviewed 29 randomized controlled trials involving a total of 3,918 participants.
Short-Term Impact
All trials revealed a modest but notable short-term effect, resulting in a 28% reduction in aggression across various variables, including age, gender, medical diagnoses, and treatment duration.
Neuroscientist Adrian Raine commented during the publication of the meta-analysis: “I believe the time has come to apply Omega-3 supplements to reduce aggression, whether in community, clinical, or criminal justice settings.”
Experiments Over 28 Years
The experiments included in the study, conducted between 1996 and 2024, lasted an average of 16 weeks. The study covered a wide range of populations, from children aged 16 or younger to older adults aged 50 to 60.
Reactive and Proactive Aggression
Moreover, the reduction in aggression included both reactive aggression (in response to provocation) and proactive aggression (planned behavior). Prior to this study, it was unclear whether Omega-3 could help address these different types of aggression.
Fish Twice Weekly
Dr. Raine added, “At the very least, parents seeking to treat an aggressive child should know that, in addition to any other treatment their child receives, consuming one or two extra servings of fish each week might also help.”
Sufficient Evidence for Further Research
Researchers believe Omega-3 reduces inflammation and supports vital brain functions, which may help regulate aggression. Many unanswered questions remain, but the team emphasizes there is enough evidence to warrant further investigation.
Multiple Benefits
Other studies show that fish oil-derived medications may help reduce the risk of fatal heart attacks, strokes, and other heart health issues. Thus, incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids into the diet appears to offer numerous benefits.
Not a Magic Solution
Raine clarified that “Omega-3 is not a magic solution to completely eliminate violence in society,” but expressed strong confidence that, based on these findings, positive results can be achieved. He stressed the need to build on this new knowledge with further research.
