What if a simple dietary tweak could help shield against the highs and lows of bipolar disorder? A new study suggests the answer may lie in a nutrient found in everyday foods like eggs, seafood, and chicken. People with higher levels of arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid, face a lower risk of developing this mental health condition that cycles between euphoric mania and crippling depression. Researchers analyzed genetic data from 14,296 people of European descent, covering 913 different metabolites in the blood, to assess for potential links to bipolar disorder.

Out of these, 33 metabolites, predominantly lipids, were found to be associated with the disorder. Higher levels of lipids containing arachidonic acid were correlated with a lower risk of bipolar disorder. In contrast, elevated levels of lipids containing linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid, were linked to a higher risk.

According to the study, this observation suggests the significance of the pathway responsible for converting linoleic acid to arachidonic acid in modulating bipolar disorder risk. The study authors added that the causal associations only concerned bipolar disorder and did not extend to other closely related psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia or depression. Early-life nutrition is essential in supporting optimal brain development, according to Mr.

Stacey, who advocates precision health interventions. These interventions ensure infants and children receive adequate arac.