Omega-3 fatty acids are important for fetal growth and development of the brain and central nervous system. Pregnant women can rely on diet or supplements to receive these essential nutrients. However, when selecting a source of fish oil, certain safety factors need to be considered, so before taking fish oil supplements consult your healthcare provider.
Types of Fish Oil
The best fish oil for pregnant women will come from the bodies of fish, not the liver, states BabyCentre. Look for well-known brands that are highly purified to remove environmental contaminants. The label should contain information about the manufacturing process and testing by an independent laboratory. High quality fish oils will not smell rancid or have a string fish odor.
Risks
Cod liver oil is unsafe for pregnant women because it contains high levels of vitamin A. Too much of this vitamin may interfere with bone growth and cause fractures. It also increases the risk of birth defects. For this reason, women of childbearing age are advised to keep vitamin A consumption below 10,000 IU, as noted by physicians at the University of California at Berkeley. In addition, there are concerns about the purity of liver oil preparations. Since the liver acts to filer out toxins, harmful contaminants accumulate there at higher rates than elsewhere in the fish body.
Alternatives
Any quality fish oil supplement made from fish bodies is a good choice for pregnant women as recommended by Babycentre. It's also possible to obtain the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids from seafood directly. However, pregnant women need to choose low mercury fish and consume them in moderation, as noted by physicians at MayoClinic.com.
Other Considerations
Individuals taking fish oil supplements often experience mild side effects including nausea, gas, abdominal bloating and gastrointestinal distress. MayoClinic.com recommends taking the pills with a meal to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as your digestive system adjusts.
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