Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 30 Researches
7.1
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 36 Reviews
7.6
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:   2 Softgels
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
20
 
Total Fat
2 g
3%**
Saturated Fat
0.5 g
3%**
Polyunsaturated Fat
1 g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.5 g
Fish Oil Concentrate
2 g (2,000 mg)
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)
360 mg
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
240 mg

Top Medical Research Studies

7
Omega-3 fatty acids show promise
We conducted a study to see if omega-3 fatty acids could help people with major depressive disorder as a standalone treatment. Over 12 weeks, 60 participants took either omega-3 supplements or a placebo.

Results showed that those taking omega-3 had lower depression scores at various points throughout the study. While there were hints of improved outcomes in terms of remission and response rates, these weren't statistically significant.

Overall, omega-3 fatty acids could be a promising alternative, but further research is necessary to confirm their effectiveness.
Read More
We utilized a novel approach to study how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), part of the omega-3 fatty acids, impacts depression in young mice. By subjecting juvenile mice to different ultrasound frequencies known to induce stress, we effectively created a model that mimics the symptoms of juvenile depression.

Throughout three weeks, we monitored the behavior of these mice, some receiving an EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplement while others did not. We found that the stressed mice given the omega-3 supplement showed no signs of depression or anxiety, which was a stark contrast to the vehicle group that did experience these symptoms.

Additionally, the study indicated that the omega-3 supplementation helped in mitigating the stress responses, such as reduced inflammation in the brain and changes in metabolism. This finding suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could have a therapeutic potential for addressing juvenile depression.

Overall, our observation sheds light on the significant benefits of incorporating eicosapentaenoic acid into diets, especially for young individuals facing mental health challenges.
Read More
8
Omega-3s may enhance mental health
We explored the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and mental health using data from over 102,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Our analysis showed that higher plasma levels of omega-3s were linked to a lower risk of depression and anxiety. Specifically, those with the highest levels exhibited a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and better brain white matter microstructure. This suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may play an important role in enhancing mental well-being, supporting their use as a potential intervention for mental health issues.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Improved skin condition
7 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential and must be obtained from food or supplements, as the body cannot produce them. They help manage depression and improve skin health. Many individuals with conditions like eczema find their skin improves with Omega-3 intake. I noticed better sleep and increased energy levels after taking Omega from NOW FOODS. It offers a great price-to-quality ratio with 200 capsules lasting for three months.
Read More
9
Cognitive improvement
5 people found this helpful
This Omega-3 fish oil is one of my top choices, having a higher concentration of EPA compared to DHA, resulting in less fishy odour. DHA aids in cognitive function and may lift depression symptoms over time. However, consult a doctor regarding interactions with other medications.
Read More
9
Maintained emotional balance
1 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for cell membranes and improve nutrition and metabolism, especially in heart and brain cells. I take mine daily with lecithin, and although these capsules are large, they’re easy to swallow. I've incorporated this Omega-3 into my routine and feel more energetic and less likely to experience depression.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 30 Researches
7.1
  • All Researches
9
DPA enhances depression treatment efficacy
We explored the therapeutic benefits of eicosapentaenoic acid (DPA) in treating depression, particularly in relation to exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells. Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was used to induce depression-like behaviors in the study, which highlighted the role of neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter deficiencies in this condition.

Through our analysis, we observed that DPA not only improved the effectiveness of exosomes but also significantly alleviated symptoms of depression. The therapy showed a remarkable ability to suppress the harmful activation of specific immune cells in the brain, known as M1 microglia, which are often linked to inflammation. Additionally, DPA helped restore levels of important neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine.

Furthermore, in laboratory tests, the exosomes treated with DPA demonstrated better protective effects against cell death and inflammation-induced damage. Mechanistically, this positive outcome was attributed to DPA’s ability to enhance the expression of a particular microRNA that plays a role in reducing inflammation pathways.

Overall, our findings suggest that DPA treatment combined with exosomes not only addresses neuroinflammation but also promotes overall brain health. This makes it a promising avenue for developing more effective depression treatments.
Read More
We utilized a novel approach to study how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), part of the omega-3 fatty acids, impacts depression in young mice. By subjecting juvenile mice to different ultrasound frequencies known to induce stress, we effectively created a model that mimics the symptoms of juvenile depression.

Throughout three weeks, we monitored the behavior of these mice, some receiving an EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplement while others did not. We found that the stressed mice given the omega-3 supplement showed no signs of depression or anxiety, which was a stark contrast to the vehicle group that did experience these symptoms.

Additionally, the study indicated that the omega-3 supplementation helped in mitigating the stress responses, such as reduced inflammation in the brain and changes in metabolism. This finding suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could have a therapeutic potential for addressing juvenile depression.

Overall, our observation sheds light on the significant benefits of incorporating eicosapentaenoic acid into diets, especially for young individuals facing mental health challenges.
Read More
9
DHA alleviates epilepsy-related depression
We explored the impact of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on depressive symptoms associated with epilepsy in a young mouse model. Through our investigation, we fed mice a diet enriched with DHA and administered pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) to induce epilepsy. Notably, our findings indicated that both DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) significantly reduced depressive symptoms in this model, with EPA showing even greater effectiveness.

Analyzing the underlying mechanisms revealed that DHA and EPA helped repair neuronal damage and improve myelin structure in the hippocampus—the brain region vital for mood regulation. Furthermore, they tackled neuroinflammation by encouraging the polarizing of microglial cells toward a protective state and suppressing harmful inflammatory responses.

Additionally, we observed that both fatty acids decreased oxidative stress and improved mitochondrial function, which are crucial aspects of brain health. These results suggest that integrating DHA (and EPA) into dietary interventions could offer a promising strategy to alleviate depression in children with epilepsy, providing a potential pathway to enhance their quality of life.
Read More
We investigated how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, can influence depression. In our study with mice, we observed that administering EPA for five weeks helped reduce stress-induced neuronal damage and improved brain synaptic functions.

Additionally, EPA demonstrated its ability to lower neuroinflammation linked to depressive behaviors. The findings highlight the potential of EPA as an effective option for managing depression related to inflammation. While further research is needed, these results are promising for its future clinical applications.
Read More
8
Omega-3 improves maternal behavior
We aimed to understand how omega-3 fatty acids could benefit maternal behaviors affected by chronic stress during pregnancy. Our study involved three groups of rats: a control, a stress group, and a group receiving omega-3 supplementation.

The results showed that stressed rats displayed poor maternal behaviors, but omega-3 supplementation significantly improved their care for pups. It appeared to enhance the serotonin system, reduce inflammation, and aid in restoring neuronal function.

This research suggests that omega-3 fish oil might offer a promising approach to help mothers dealing with stress-related behavioral issues.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 36 Reviews
7.6
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Improved skin condition
7 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential and must be obtained from food or supplements, as the body cannot produce them. They help manage depression and improve skin health. Many individuals with conditions like eczema find their skin improves with Omega-3 intake. I noticed better sleep and increased energy levels after taking Omega from NOW FOODS. It offers a great price-to-quality ratio with 200 capsules lasting for three months.
Read More
9
Cognitive improvement
5 people found this helpful
This Omega-3 fish oil is one of my top choices, having a higher concentration of EPA compared to DHA, resulting in less fishy odour. DHA aids in cognitive function and may lift depression symptoms over time. However, consult a doctor regarding interactions with other medications.
Read More
9
Maintained emotional balance
1 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for cell membranes and improve nutrition and metabolism, especially in heart and brain cells. I take mine daily with lecithin, and although these capsules are large, they’re easy to swallow. I've incorporated this Omega-3 into my routine and feel more energetic and less likely to experience depression.
Read More
9
Helps manage stress
Omega-3 is crucial for reducing psycho-emotional stress and preventing depression. It is beneficial for skin, hair, and chronic fatigue, and particularly effective when combined with coenzyme Q10. Omega-3 supports cardiovascular health, helping to normalise blood pressure in hypertensive patients. It also strengthens the immune system and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
Read More
7.5
Stress reduction
107 people found this helpful
This omega-3 is my favourite! I've taken it for 15 years and have recommended it to my family for cardiovascular and neurological health. While omega-3 doesn't directly cause weight loss, it helps manage appetite and prolongs the feeling of fullness. Regular intake stabilises blood pressure and eases symptoms related to stress and depression. However, excessive consumption can lead to pancreatitis. I urge everyone to include omega-3 in their diet for better health!
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

7.5
Overall health
12 people found this helpful
I started taking omega-3 to boost my health, and after a month, I noticed changes: smoother skin and a more pleasant complexion. It combats cardiovascular issues and aids metabolism, crucial for my well-being. I plan to continue and perhaps increase my dosage. Stay healthy!
7
Alleviated fatigue
1 people found this helpful
Fish Oil from Now contains 180 EPA and 120 DHA per capsule. It slows the aging process, improves memory, and reduces depression through its anti-inflammatory benefits. I noticed increased energy shortly after starting, along with improved sleep quality and healthier skin overall.
7.5
Cognitive clarity
8 people found this helpful
I experienced dizziness and depression, yet after taking omega-3, my symptoms improved significantly. It might not be the sole factor, but I feel more energetic and present. I will continue taking it as a preventive measure.
7.5
Enhanced resilience
1 people found this helpful
I believe Omega-3 from Now Foods offers an optimal price-quality ratio. The capsules are large but easy to swallow, and they don’t smell if intact. I take two capsules after meals, and I've noticed improvements in my mood and elasticity of blood vessels. Overall, I feel more resilient, helping combat feelings of depression.
9
Anxiety reduction
I recommend Omega-3 for those suffering from anxiety and depression. With regular use, you may notice a significant reduction in symptoms, especially when combined with vitamin D or sunlight exposure.
9
Maintained emotional balance
1 people found this helpful
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for cell membranes and improve nutrition and metabolism, especially in heart and brain cells. I take mine daily with lecithin, and although these capsules are large, they’re easy to swallow. I've incorporated this Omega-3 into my routine and feel more energetic and less likely to experience depression.
7.5
Mood improvement
90 people found this helpful
Fish oil is the healthiest supplement and a vital source of omega-3. It's essential for everyone, enhancing skin, hair, and overall health. It's notably beneficial for conditions like dementia, depression, heart disease, and diabetes. After incorporating fish oil into my routine, I’ve observed positive effects on my well-being. It’s truly a treasure for health! If this review has helped, please click the "USEFUL" button.
7.5
Reduced depression
6 people found this helpful
After regularly taking this supplement, I felt less depressed. I've been able to reduce my lithium intake for managing depression. While I often feel down after consuming omega-6 oils, this Omega-3 supplement has helped me maintain a better emotional balance. The capsules are large but swallow easily; just be wary of the fishy burps if I take them on an empty stomach.
7.5
Positive emotional effects
1 people found this helpful
I take Omega-3 regularly for myself and my family, as it reduces the risk of heart disease and supports cognitive functions while also aiding in the fight against depression. Additionally, it protects my skin from environmental harm and helps accelerate healing and reduce cholesterol.
9
Cognitive improvement
5 people found this helpful
This Omega-3 fish oil is one of my top choices, having a higher concentration of EPA compared to DHA, resulting in less fishy odour. DHA aids in cognitive function and may lift depression symptoms over time. However, consult a doctor regarding interactions with other medications.
We examined recent clinical trials investigating omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to see how they might help with major depressive disorder (MDD).

The analysis focused on high doses of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), showing improvements especially in patients with inflammation-related depression and younger individuals.

Although results are encouraging, particularly for specific subpopulations, establishing the best doses and treatment durations requires further research.
4
Omega-3s prevent depression recurrence
We conducted a study to determine if omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, could help prevent depression from returning in older adults. Over 52 weeks, we monitored the effects on 39 patients who were initially stable.

While we noticed that omega-3s significantly lowered the risk of a depression recurrence in these patients, there was no notable impact on their overall depressive or anxiety symptoms. Our findings hint at the potential of omega-3s as a preventive measure rather than a treatment solution.
We analyzed five trials involving 228 participants to investigate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on depression in children and adolescents. While omega-3 supplementation showed a potential to reduce self-reported depression symptoms, the evidence is quite uncertain.

In fact, there's little to no difference observed in the reduction of clinical depression symptoms when compared to a placebo.

Additionally, attrition rates and adverse effects between groups were similar, with mild issues reported. Overall, while omega-3s may help some, more rigorous studies are needed to better understand their role in treating adolescent depression.
4
EPA shows potential in depression
We examined the effectiveness of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, in treating depression. After analyzing 36 well-structured studies, we found some positive outcomes and also observed notable variability in the results. The overall findings suggested that EPA could offer benefits for depression, yielding a small but statistically significant improvement in symptoms.

It's particularly interesting to note that for Asian patients experiencing mild to moderate depression, the best results seemed to emerge with a daily dosage of 1000 to 1500 mg of omega-3s over eight weeks. This intake should ideally have a specific balance of EPA to another omega-3, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), set at between 1:1 and 2:1 ratios. However, despite these encouraging indications, our analysis also revealed that EPA isn’t better than a placebo for achieving response or remission rates or for adverse events.

Overall, while omega-3 PUFAs like EPA may hold promise for managing depressive symptoms, we must approach the findings with caution. Further research is warranted to deepen our understanding of how to harness the potential benefits of these fatty acids in treating depression.
We delved into the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, on depression. While some research highlights their potential to reduce depressive symptoms, others found little to no effect. Factors like dosage and individual nutritional needs seem to influence these outcomes. Additionally, omega-3s may complement traditional antidepressants but results aren’t consistent across various studies. Overall, there's still a need for more research to create clear guidelines for omega-3 use in treating depression.
7
Omega-3s linked to reduced depression
We explored how omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA and EPA, might influence mood and brain connectivity in young adults showing signs of mild depression. In a study involving 15 participants aged 18 to 29, we found that those with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids had lower depression scores. This suggests that omega-3s may enhance connections in brain regions associated with mood regulation. While promising, further research is needed to deepen our understanding of these effects on subthreshold depression.

References

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  2. Yu Q, Li H, Chen M, Pan Y, Zhou L, et al. GPR120 internalization: a key mechanism for EPA in antidepressant action. Food Funct. 2025;16:2893. 10.1039/d5fo00252d
  3. Dyall SC, Malau IA, Su KP. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in depression: insights from recent clinical trials. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2025;28:66. 10.1097/MCO.0000000000001077
  4. Al Sinani M, Johnson M, Crawford M, Al Maqbali M, Al-Adawi S. Depression and anxiety in the pregnant Omani population in relation to their fatty acid intake and levels. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2025;204:102668. 10.1016/j.plefa.2025.102668
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  6. Raza ML, Hassan ST, Jamil S, Fatima W, Fatima M. Nutritional interventions in depression: The role of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids in neuropsychiatric health. Clin Nutr. 2025;45:270. 10.1016/j.clnu.2025.01.009
  7. Faulkner P, Gibson EL, Dyall SC. Long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are associated with brain connectivity and mood in young adults with subthreshold depression: A preliminary study. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2025;204:102664. 10.1016/j.plefa.2025.102664
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  24. Zhang C, Hou B, Xu Y, Zeng S, Luo X, et al. Association between eicosapentaenoic acid consumption and the risk of depressive symptoms in US adults: Analyses from NHANES 2005-2018. J Affect Disord. 2024;354:62. 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.055
  25. Huang S, Guo J, Jiang R, Ma K, Lin F, et al. Four-way decomposition of the effects of nutrient supplement and physical exercise on depression among older Chinese: a nationwide cross-sectional analysis. BMC Public Health. 2024;24:3469. 10.1186/s12889-024-20995-8
  26. Wang M, Yan X, Li Y, Li Q, Xu Y, et al. Association between plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids and depressive among US adults. Front Nutr. 2024;11:1342304. 10.3389/fnut.2024.1342304
  27. Chang YY, Ting B, Chen DT, Hsu WT, Lin SC, et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Depression in the Elderly and Patients with Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel). 2024;12. 10.3390/healthcare12050536
  28. Suneson K, Söderberg Veibäck G, Lindahl J, Tjernberg J, Ståhl D, et al. Omega-3 fatty acids for inflamed depression - A match/mismatch study. Brain Behav Immun. 2024;118:192. 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.02.029
  29. Xue Y, Wang L, Liu T, Zhao T, Xie K, et al. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation improves memory in first-diagnosed, drug-naïve patients with depression: Secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord. 2024;350:403. 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.149
  30. Yang Y, Chen L, Zhang N, Zhao Y, Che H, et al. DHA and EPA Alleviate Epileptic Depression in PTZ-Treated Young Mice Model by Inhibiting Neuroinflammation through Regulating Microglial M2 Polarization and Improving Mitochondrial Metabolism. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023;12. 10.3390/antiox12122079
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