Relationship: Anxiety and DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Anxiety

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid commonly found in fish oil and is essential for brain health. There is scientific interest in the role of DHA in supporting mental health, including anxiety. Several observational studies have found correlations between low omega-3 intake (including DHA) and higher rates of anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the effects of omega-3 supplementation on anxiety symptoms, with mixed results.

A 2018 meta-analysis (Su et al., 2018) of 19 clinical trials concluded that omega-3 supplementation, especially formulations containing higher EPA relative to DHA, might reduce anxiety symptoms in clinical populations. However, the specific role of DHA (as opposed to EPA) is less clear, as most studies use mixed formulations. Some research suggests DHA may exert anxiolytic effects by supporting neuronal membrane fluidity and modulating neurotransmitter systems, but direct evidence for DHA alone remains limited.

Overall, while there is a scientific rationale for the potential benefit of DHA in anxiety, the direct clinical evidence is not robust, and benefits may be driven more by EPA than DHA. More targeted research is needed to clarify DHA’s independent effects. Thus, the evidence supporting DHA supplementation specifically for anxiety is limited but present, justifying a moderate evidence rating.

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Anxiety

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Anxiety

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)For the health condition: Anxiety

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Anxiety

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Anxiety