A 2024 study found that omega-3 fatty acids, available as dietary supplements through fish oil capsules, could reduce aggression according to research on mental and physical well-being. The trials included in the study were conducted between 1996 and 2024 and lasted an average of 16 weeks, covering a variety of demographics. The research found that omega-3 supplementation reduced both reactive aggression and proactive aggression, two different types of aggressive behavior. Before this study, it was unclear whether omega-3 could help with these distinct types of aggression.
Implications and Recommendations
Researchers suggest there is sufficient evidence to warrant further investigation into omega-3 supplementation as an aggression-reduction approach. One researcher stated: “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.” For parents seeking treatment for an aggressive child, experts note that in addition to other treatments, “an extra portion or two of fish each week could also help.”
Cardiovascular and Broader Health Benefits
Fish oil medications derived from omega-3 have been shown to help reduce the risk of fatal heart attacks, strokes, and other heart health problems. Researchers emphasize that there appears to be “plenty of upside to adding some omega-3 to your diet.” While larger studies across longer periods of time are needed to further establish the relationship between omega-3 supplementation and aggression reduction, the current evidence suggests the approach warrants further exploration and implementation.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://us.headtopics.com/news/one-dietary-supplement-was-found-to-reduce-aggression-by-up-79456693