Taking omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and dietary supplements, may help reduce levels of aggression. This conclusion was reached by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, who analyzed the results of nearly three dozen clinical studies. The findings were published in the journal Aggression and Violent Behavior (AVB).
Omega-3 has long been associated with supporting mental health: previous research has linked its deficiency to an increased risk of schizophrenia and depressive disorders. Aggression and antisocial behavior, in turn, are partly viewed as consequences of impaired nutrition and metabolic processes in the brain.
The authors of the new study conducted a meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials carried out between 1996 and 2024. In total, 3,918 participants took part — ranging from children and adolescents to middle-aged and older adults. The average follow-up period was about 16 weeks.
The results showed a moderate but statistically significant effect: omega-3 supplementation was associated with an average reduction in aggressive behavior of up to 28% compared to control groups. The effect persisted regardless of sex, age, clinical diagnosis, dosage, or duration of supplementation.
Importantly, the reduction in aggression applied to both reactive aggression (impulsive responses to provocation) and proactive aggression — premeditated aggressive behavior. Previously, it was unclear whether omega-3 influenced both types.
“I believe the time has come to consider omega-3 supplements as one of the tools for reducing aggression — whether in clinical settings, the community, or even within the criminal justice system,” said neurocriminologist Adrian Raine, one of the study’s authors.
At the same time, the researchers emphasized that omega-3 is not a “panacea.” The observed effect was short-term, and larger, longer-term studies are needed to confirm sustained benefits.
“Omega-3 is not a magic solution to violence in society. But can it help? Our data allow us to answer that question in the affirmative,” Raine noted.
Scientists suggest that the mechanism may be linked to reduced inflammation and support of neuronal processes in the brain. Additional evidence in favor of omega-3 includes data showing a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease with regular consumption.
According to the authors, even increasing the share of fatty fish in the diet — without taking supplements — may offer potential benefits, including for children with heightened aggression, when combined with standard therapy.
Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter