OBJECTIVE:

This study examined the association between the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids and low mood, major depression, and suicide.

METHOD:

A total of 29,133 men ages 50 to 69 years participated in a population-based trial in Finland. The intake of fatty acids and fish consumption were calculated from a diet history questionnaire. Self-reported depressed mood was recorded three times annually, data on hospital treatments due to a major depressive disorder were derived from the National Hospital Discharge Register, and suicides were identified from death certificates.

RESULTS:

There were no associations between the dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids or fish consumption and depressed mood, major depressive episodes, or suicide.

CONCLUSIONS:

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids showed no association with low mood level.