The Omega-3 Connection

Chapter One: Nature's Mood Enhancers

During the course of reading this book you will learn about exciting research into a remarkable group of natural substances: the omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the optimal function of every cell in our bodies, yet we cannot manufacture them internally. Instead, along with vitamins, these essential oils can be obtained only in the diet.

Over the past century, people in developed countries, particularly in the United States, have largely eliminated omega-3 fatty acids from their diet. There is considerable evidence that this has had a very negative impact on the inner workings of many bodily systems, most notably the heart and the brain. We are learning that restoring the body's natural balance of omega-3 oils may improve a multitude of medical disorders, including coronary artery disease, major depression, and bipolar disorder (also called manic-depressive illness). My personal journey toward discovery of the omega-3 oils began in 1987, when I finished medical school and launched my career in psychiatric neuroscience with a residency and fellowship at Harvard Medi ... read full excerpt from: The Omega-3 Connection: The Groundbreaking Omega-3 Antidepressant Diet and Brain Program ebook