Fish Oil & Breastfeeding

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good health and are most abundant in cold water fish. Fish oil is the best form of omega-3 supplementation for individuals who do not eat fish. Breastfeeding women need plenty of omega-3 fatty acids for both their own health and the growth and development of their baby. Be sure to consult your physician before using fish oil liquid or capsules.

Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good cardiovascular health. They prevent atherosclerosis, decrease total cholesterol, improve high-density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol levels and decrease blood pressure. In infants and children they are important for brain and central nervous system development and vision. A study in "Psychiatry Research" has also demonstrated a potential role for omega-3 fatty acids in preventing postpartum depression.

Types

Many formulations of fish oil supplements are available over the counter. Always choose a high-quality brand to avoid potential environmental contaminants, such as mercury and toxins, that are found in large ocean fish. The label should include information about the manufacturing and purification process and evidence of testing by a third-party laboratory. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid cod liver oil supplements because they can contain excessive amounts of vitamins A and D.

Dosage

According to the American Pregnancy Association, pregnant and breastfeeding women should receive 300 mg of docosahexanoic acid, one type of omega-3 fatty acid that is prevalent in fish oil. Check labels to find out the amount of DHA in your brand of fish oil.

Side Effects

Gas, nausea and diarrhea are common side effects of fish oil supplements. Many fish oil pills contain 1 g of total fish oil. BabyCenter.com recommends purchasing capsules that contain 300 or 500 mg of total fish oil per pill so that you can spread the dose out over the course of a day and reduce such side effects. You may also find the pills easier to tolerate if you take them with a meal. Some people dislike the aftertaste associated with fish oil pills. You can find brands that include lemon or orange flavoring to mask the taste.