New omega-3 study shows promising potential

Do you often eat salmon, sardines, or mackerel, and remember to take your daily fish oil? According to a new meta-analysis, this could have a positive effect on your behavior, particularly regarding aggressiveness. The analysis, published in the journal Aggression and Violent Behavior, suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce aggression in both children and adults.

Neurocriminologist Adrian Raine has summarized the results of several studies and concludes that omega-3 is a safe and inexpensive method to reduce aggressiveness. Michael Lewis from the Brain Health Education and Research Institute supports this claim, explaining that omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and, consequently, aggression. Inflammation is a response from the body’s immune system that can lead to both physical and mental health problems.

The meta-analysis gathers results from 29 different studies with nearly 4,000 participants. The participants, who took omega-3 supplements for an average of 16 weeks, showed a small but significant effect: a 30 percent reduction in aggressive behavior. While there is a clear correlation, it cannot be said with certainty that omega-3 alone is responsible for the effect, as other factors may be involved.

So, while omega-3 is not a miracle cure for aggression, there is a good chance it can help to reduce aggressive tendencies in some people. And with the many other health benefits of omega-3, it certainly doesn’t hurt to include it in your diet.

At EFFOP, which represents European producers of fishmeal and fish oil, we view the new study positively. It shows that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce aggression. Fishmeal and fish oil production is not only important for creating nutritious foods but also for enhancing human health and well-being, as supported by this study.

Fishmeal and fish oil play a crucial role in sustainable food production systems, particularly in aquaculture. A significant portion of the world’s production of these products is used in fish farming, where their high protein content and essential omega-3 fatty acids are vital for the health and growth of the fish. By supporting aquaculture, fishmeal and fish oil contribute to the blue value chain, from catch to feed and the production of healthy foods.

European fish oil production is known for its high quality. We are therefore working to gain access to the human consumption market, which we currently do not have access to due to regulatory barriers.

Read the full study here.