Role of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (Ω-3 Pufa) in the Prevention of Postpartum Depression

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental health problem in women at maternity phase. This study’s objective was to observe the relation between polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω -3 PUFA) and postpartum depression at 4–8 weeks of postnatal period. Methods: Randomized clinical trial was in which two groups were made for trials based on EDPS score, 13 participants whose EPDS score was below 14 have minor depression were placed in a control group for 8 weeks and 17 participants whose EPDS score was 15 or above 15 have moderate to severe depression were placed in an experimental group for 8 weeks who took 30g of walnuts that contains 2.6 g of Alpha Linolenic Acids an ω-3 PUFA. The pre and post assessment of EPDS score and HDL level of both groups were compared by applying paired sample t tests. Results: It showed a significant difference, the paired t-test value of pre and post assessment of (HDL) of the experimental group was (t =-29.155, p < 0.001) whereas the paired t-test value of pre and post assessment of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) of control group was (t = 2.007, p > .068). The paired t-test value of the pre and post assessment of (EPDS) score of the experimental group was (t =19.799, p < 0.001) whereas the (EPDS) score of the control group was (t =-2.132, p > .054). Conclusion: Women showed a significant improvement in depressive symptoms while receiving nutritional intervention of omega-3 rich food (walnuts).