New research suggests that omega-6 fatty acids may help reduce the risk of developing bipolar disorder.
The world’s first study, conducted by the University of South Australia, may help leverage omega-6 fatty acids to curb the mental health condition that impacts millions worldwide.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder presents a significant challenge to individuals, marked by alternating episodes of mania and depression.
While the exact origins of this condition remain elusive, research suggests a strong genetic component, indicating a heightened risk for those with affected family members.
Statistics reveal a substantial global burden of mental health disorders, with bipolar disorder affecting approximately 40 million individuals worldwide.
In Australia alone, nearly 3% of the population, totalling around 568,000 individuals aged 16 and above, grapple with the challenges posed by bipolar disorder.
Now, research suggests that omega-6 fatty acids can help lower the condition’s risk.
Mental health effects of omega-6 fatty acids
Omega-6 fatty acids are commonly found in eggs, poultry, and seafood.
To test their impacts, the researchers performed a Mendelian randomisation, a causal interference method.
The team analysed 913 metabolites across 14,296 Europeans, finding that 33 (predominantly lipids) were associated with increasing bipolar risk.
Dr David Stacey, the lead researcher, highlighted the potential for innovative lifestyle or dietary interventions based on recent findings, underscoring the emerging role of metabolites in bipolar and other psychiatric disorders.
The study reveals that individuals genetically predisposed to higher levels of lipids containing arachidonic acid have a reduced risk of bipolar disorder, while lower levels pose a higher risk.
Arachidonic acid, sourced from meat, seafood, or synthesised from dietary linoleic acid, is crucial for brain development and is notably found in infant formula.
Supplementation with arachidonic acid may benefit those at risk, but the optimal timing remains uncertain—whether perinatally, during early life, or for diagnosed individuals.
Professor Elina Hyppönen, who co-authored the study, believes more trials are needed to investigate the therapeutic potential of arachidonic acid against bipolar disorder.
She said: “We need further studies to rigorously assess the potential for arachidonic acid supplementation in bipolar disorder prevention and treatment, particularly in people who carry genetic risks.
“While our findings support potential avenues for precision health interventions for early life nutrition for babies’ brain development, we need to know more about the connection with bipolar disorder.
“If we can establish how, why, and when people respond to arachidonic acid supplementation, then we will be one step closer to helping people who are struggling with this serious and lifelong mental health condition.”
