Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
For the health condition: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, has been explored as a potential adjunct in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) based on the role of omega-3s in brain health and neuroinflammation. Several small clinical trials and observational studies have investigated whether DHA supplementation can impact PTSD symptoms, particularly in populations at high risk such as military personnel or trauma survivors. Some studies have found associations between low omega-3 levels and increased risk of developing PTSD symptoms. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing DHA or mixed omega-3 supplementation in PTSD prevention or treatment have produced inconsistent results. For example, a 2012 RCT by Matsuoka et al. found some reduction in PTSD symptoms among accident survivors given DHA within 10 days after trauma, but other studies have failed to demonstrate significant or consistent clinical benefits. Mechanistically, DHA is thought to modulate neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter systems involved in mood and stress responses, but definitive pathways remain under investigation. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses to date generally conclude that while omega-3s, including DHA, may have some neuropsychiatric benefits, the evidence for efficacy specifically in PTSD is limited and inconclusive. Therefore, while the use of DHA in PTSD is based on scientific rationale and some preliminary findings, the overall level of supporting evidence is modest, and routine use is not yet supported by strong clinical guidelines.

More about DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
More about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Products containing DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.