New research shows that omega-3 supplements may reduce aggressive behavior.
A meta-analysis found that omega-3 supplements can decrease aggression by about 28% across various groups. The study, published in Aggression and Violent Behavior, highlights the link between nutrition and behavior, noting that omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and fish oil, improve brain function and reduce inflammation.
Past studies connected poor nutrition to aggression. Adrian Raine of the University of Pennsylvania conducted this meta-analysis to see if omega-3 could help. He analyzed 29 trials with 3,918 participants, finding a modest yet significant reduction in aggression. Omega-3 helped with both reactive and proactive aggression.
The research did not find that higher doses of omega-3 were more effective, indicating even small amounts can help. There was no evidence of publication bias, strengthening the results. While omega-3 isn’t a complete solution for aggression, it can reduce it by about 30%.
Future research should explore how omega-3 affects the brain and whether it can reduce re-offending among prisoners. Despite the modest effect sizes, the ease of using omega-3 supplements makes them a practical option for reducing aggression.