The Crosstalk of Lipids, Brain and Diet, and Their Potential Impact on Depression Development and Prevention...

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Among its various etiologies, dietary habits have been strongly correlated with both the risk and severity of depressive symptoms. Lipids, as essential biomolecules in the brain, play a vital role in maintaining its structure and function. Alterations in the brain lipidome have been linked to MDD and can be influenced by dietary lipid intake, including high-fat diets (HFDs), characterized by an increased intake of saturated, trans, and ω-6 fatty acids (FAs), and diets rich in ω-3 FAs. HFDs have been shown, particularly in animal studies, to 1) promote depressive behaviors, as evidenced by changes in behavioral tests, 2) increase oxidative stress, and 3) exacerbate depressive symptoms. Conversely, ω-3 FAs are critical for the proper functioning of neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation and relief of depression symptoms, reducing inflammation, increasing brain plasticity, and supporting overall brain health. Recently, algae have gained attention as a sustainable alternative source of ω-3 FAs, offering fewer environmental concerns compared with traditional fish and fish oil sources. This review highlights the significant role of dietary lipids in the onset and management of depression. Maintaining a balanced intake of ω-3 and ω-6 FAs is essential to preserving brain health and reducing the risk of depression.