Fish consumption, not fatty acid status, is related to quality of life in a healthy population

Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2010 Jul;83(1):31-5. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2010.02.030. Epub 2010 Mar 5.

Abstract

Depressive symptoms in the community have a considerable impact on quality of life. Although long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) have frequently been implicated in depressed mood, their relationship with quality of life has scarcely been investigated. This study examined the cross-sectional associations between fish consumption and plasma phospholipid LCPUFA status on the one hand, and quality of life, as measured by the Short Form 36 questionnaire, on the other in a population-based sample. The mental health component of quality of life was not associated with LCPUFA status or fish consumption. Fish consumption showed a positive association with physical well-being, which remained significant after correction for LCPUFA status, suggesting that the relationship between fish consumption and physical well-being is independent of the LCPUFA content of fish. These findings indicate that fish consumption may serve as a proxy for a healthy lifestyle or a favorable nutritional status, which is reflected in better quality of life.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / blood
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated / blood*
  • Female
  • Fish Products*
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Mental Health*
  • Middle Aged
  • Quality of Life*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated