Fish oil contains essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, fats necessary for the development of the fetal eyes and the central nervous system. In addition to the potential benefits to the fetus, pregnant mothers may benefit from omega-3 consumption during pregnancy, as well. While consumption of fatty fish is one way to get these valuable fats, some women prefer the convenience and safety of fish oil supplements.
Fetal Development
The most important omega-3 fat for development, docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, occurs at high levels in oily fish. Supplements of this fish oil taken during pregnancy support brain and nervous system development of the fetus. In a 2003 study in the journal "Pediatrics," supplementation with fish oil during pregnancy was linked to better cognitive skills at age 4. Fish oil high in DHA also helps the proper development of eye structures. Another type of omega-3 fat found in fish oil, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, contributes to heart and immune system development. Supplementation with omega-3 fats during pregnancy may also help protect the child against food allergies later in life, according to research published in the September, 2009 issue of "Acta Paediatrica."
Maternal Benefits
The benefits of omega-3 fats in pregnancy aren't only for the baby. Maternal health benefits from consumption of fish oil include a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia, preterm labor and premature birth. Mothers who take omega-3 fish oil supplements during pregnancy may also be protected against post-partum depression, although the results are mixed regarding this potential benefit and more studies are required.
Safety
Fatty fish can become contaminated with environmental mercury, a substance released through industrial pollution into water and air. When ingested during pregnancy, mercury can harm the developing fetal brain and contribute to learning disabilities and birth defects. Large, predatory fish are more likely to have high levels of mercury and pregnant women are advised to limit consumption of fish to 12 oz. or less a week.Other potential contaminants include dioxins and furans. Reputable fish oil manufacturers choose fish with lower contamination levels to begin with and remove any potential contaminants during the manufacturing process.
Purification Standards
When purchasing fish oil, look for third-party lab results indicating the level of contamination in particles per trillion. Some manufacturers also have seals indicating that they have passed tests by organizations such as the Council for Responsible Nutrition, Norwegian Medicinal Standard or the European Pharmacopoeia Standard. These tests guarantee that the levels of contamination are below a level set by the organization doing the testing.
References
- American Pregnancy Association: Omega-3 Fish Oil and Pregnancy
- March of Dimes: Omega-3 Fatty Acids During Pregnancy
- "Pediatrics": Maternal Supplementation with Very-Long-Chain n-3 Fatty Acids During Pregnancy and Lactation Augments Children's IQ at 4 Years of Age
- "Acta Paediatrica": Fish oil supplementation in pregnancy and lactation may decrease the risk of infant allergy.
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