If you have a problem with your temper, you may want to add more fish oil to your diet. New research found that omega-3 supplements could reduce aggression by up to 30 percent regardless of age or gender. Omega-3s have an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain and boost dopamine and serotonin. Meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials found that omega-3s reduce people’s reactions to aggravation and acts of planned aggression.
“The study’s findings — indicating that omega-3 may reduce aggression and violent outbursts — align with existing knowledge about the critical role of these nutrients in brain health,” said Stefanie Daniels, a registered nutritional therapist who was not involved in the study. She said the findings underscore nutrition’s massive role in behavior and emotions.
The body needs omega-3 fatty acids but cannot make them. Olive oil, fatty fish and walnuts are good sources of omega-3s, or you can take a supplement.
Inflammation in the brain can exacerbate mood disorders and aggression. Inflammation also triggers immune system responses that can be neurotoxic and increase irritability and aggression. As omega-3s can reduce inflammation and increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, they can help the body regulate mood.
There are fish oil supplements. And many supplements, including Glucocil, include fish oil as a beneficial ingredient. However, including it in your diet from food sources is also beneficial. In addition to fish, olive oil and walnuts, chia seeds are a great source of omega-3s and contain helpful fiber.
Neurocriminologist Adrian Raine, who led the research at the Univ. of Pennsylvania, believes it may be a step toward a happier, less violent society. “I think the time has come to implement omega-3 supplementation to reduce aggression, irrespective of whether the setting is the community, the clinic, or the criminal justice system,” he said. “Omega-3 is not a magic bullet that is going to completely solve the problem of violence in society. But can it help? Based on these findings, we firmly believe it can, and we should start to act on the new knowledge we have.”
His team believes it could be used as a therapeutic tool for people in prison or children with aggression problems. They went on to say it might be a useful therapeutic tool for anyone struggling with mood.
If you often find yourself short-tempered or out of sorts, it might be worth examining your diet. Your brain can’t function properly if you aren’t getting all the necessary nutrients. Adding more omega-3s to your life could be the boost you need!
