US researchers are recruiting volunteers to take part in a study into the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on depression.
Previous studies have suggested that supplements containing omega-3 can benefit people with depression.
The forthcoming study will investigate two specific fatty acids, docosahexanoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA), which are found in fish oil, flaxseed and walnuts.
Dr Mark Hyman Rapaport, who will lead the study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre, commented: "The reported side effects of omega-3 treatments have been mild and include upset stomach and a fishy taste in the mouth.
"There do not appear to be risks to the liver or adverse interactions with most other medications."
Dr Rapaport noted that the medical centre has conducted a number of investigations into alternative and complementary medicine over the past decade.
"Expanding our psychiatry studies to include natural treatments has shown promising benefits to patients suffering from a variety of mental illnesses," he added.
US researchers are recruiting volunteers to take part in a study into the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on depression.
