Research has found that arachidonic acid, a type of fatty acid, can aid in the prevention of bipolar disorder.
The study revealing metabolites related to bipolar disorder was published in the Biological Psychiatry Journal.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by alternating episodes of mania and depression. During manic episodes, individuals may feel unrealistically euphoric and elevated, while depressive episodes are marked by feelings of helplessness and prolonged sadness. While family history plays a significant role in the onset of bipolar disorder, a variety of factors can collectively contribute to its development.
The research team aimed to screen metabolites that may have a causal role in bipolar disorder by analyzing the metabolic health data of 14,296 adults in Europe. The study identified 33 metabolites, most of which were lipids, specifically a type known as arachidonic acid. No evidence was found linking these lipids to other mental disorders such as schizophrenia or depression.
Genetic analysis revealed that the association between bipolar disorder and arachidonic acid was due to genetic mutations within the FADS1/2/3 gene cluster. This gene cluster is involved in the conversion process of linoleic acid to arachidonic acid and is known to be a high-risk area for causing bipolar disorder.
The researchers explained that dietary adjustments containing arachidonic acid could potentially reduce the risk of bipolar disorder in individuals with a genetic predisposition. They also added that a diet rich in arachidonic acid could help slow the progression of the disorder in those who already have bipolar disorder.
Arachidonic acid can be obtained from omega-6 fatty acids found in seafood, eggs, meat, etc. It can also be synthesized from linoleic acid found in nuts, seeds, oils, etc..
Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that arachidonic acid could aid in the prevention of bipolar disorder.
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