Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids as it relates to COMT and Aversive Emotional Stimuli in Health report: COMT Gene: A Look at the Processing of Aversive Emotional Stimuli

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that play a crucial role in brain function and overall health. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can modulate the activity of the COMT gene, which encodes the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase. COMT is involved in the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Variations in the COMT gene can affect the activity of this enzyme, leading to differences in neurotransmitter levels in the brain. Studies have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may influence COMT activity, potentially affecting the levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. This modulation of neurotransmitter levels could impact how individuals respond to aversive emotional stimuli. Aversive emotional stimuli are negative or unpleasant experiences that can trigger emotional responses such as fear, anxiety, or stress. Individuals with certain COMT gene variations may be more sensitive to aversive emotional stimuli due to differences in neurotransmitter levels. By potentially influencing COMT activity, omega-3 fatty acids may help regulate neurotransmitter levels and modulate the response to aversive emotional stimuli. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diet through sources such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts may have beneficial effects on emotional regulation and stress response. Overall, the interaction between omega-3 fatty acids, the COMT gene, and aversive emotional stimuli highlights the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for optimal brain function and emotional well-being.

Supplements for COMT and Aversive Emotional Stimuli

Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.

  1. Curcumin (found in turmeric)

    Curcumin may inhibit COMT activity and increase dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex. This could potentially enhance emotional processing and mood in those with the val/val genotype

  2. Rhodiola rosea

    This adaptogenic herb may inhibit COMT activity, particularly in people with the val/val genotype. It could help modulate dopamine levels and improve stress resilience.

  3. Omega-3 fatty acids

    Omega-3s may reduce inflammation and protect dopamine-producing neurons. This could support healthy emotional processing, especially in met allele carriers.

  4. Magnesium

    Magnesium supplementation has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. It's proposed to positively influence neurotransmitter function, including dopamine signaling

  5. SAM-e

    SAM-e is involved in methylation processes including COMT methylation of catecholamines. Supplementing with SAM-e could potentially optimize COMT enzyme function

  6. Ginkgo biloba

    Ginkgo extracts contain terpenes that act as MAO inhibitors, allowing more dopamine and norepinephrine to remain circulating in the brain, which could benefit emotion regulation.

  7. Vitamin D

    Low vitamin D levels have been associated with depression. Optimizing vitamin D may support dopaminergic function and healthy mood/stress response.

  8. Lavender essential oil

    Lavender contains linalool which has anxiolytic effects. One study found lavender oil decreased anxiety symptoms more in met/met genotypes, possibly by increasing dopamine availability.

  9. Resveratrol

    Found in grapes, resveratrol has COMT-inhibiting effects similar to curcumin according to some research. It may boost dopamine signaling in the prefrontal cortex.

  10. Passionflower

    Traditionally used for anxiety, passionflower increases GABA activity in the brain. It may also inhibit MAO enzymes leading to higher dopamine and norepinephrine.

  11. Probiotics

    Emerging research shows gut-brain connections. Probiotics may reduce inflammation, support neurotransmitter precursors, and improve mood/stress response.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements. They can have side effects, and some may interact with medications or other supplements you're already taking.
Disclaimer