Pregnant women and Omega 3: take care of yourself and your baby
Pregnant women are strongly encouraged to supplement with specific nutrients (vitamins, minerals, etc.) throughout their pregnancy. Omega 3 and in particular DHA are also part of these recommendations: but why? We tell you all about it!
Nutrition, one of the most important keys to a healthy pregnancy
During pregnancy, a good diet is essential. Indeed, pregnant women have increased needs, the purpose being to avoid deficiencies in iron, vitamins and Omega 3. Nutrition has an impact on the course of the pregnancy, but also on the baby’s development.
However, it is not uncommon for pregnant women to be deficient in Omega-3, as they are recommended to limit their consumption of fish, particularly fish rich in Omega-3, to limit the risk of contamination of the foetus by PCBs or methylmercury.
Omega 3s play an essential role in the pregnancy
Studies show that low fish consumption is a factor in preterm births. On the other hand, other clinical studies show that taking DHA during pregnancy reduces the risk of premature births.
A study by Karl & al in 2016 shows that pregnant women who received DHA supplementation have a 58% reduced risk of early preterm delivery and a 17% reduced risk of any preterm delivery. The study also shows a decrease in hospital stays for children born prematurely from mothers who took DHA-rich supplements.
A higher intake of DHA during pregnancy and breastfeeding will contribute to a healthier pregnancy. This additional intake is especially recommended in the 3rd trimester, as well as during the first 3 months of breastfeeding.
The best support for baby’s development
DHA is essential for the development of the foetus, particularly the brain, the nervous system and the retina. This is why DHA intake is recommended throughout pregnancy, especially during the last 12 weeks and the first 3 months of breastfeeding.
Focus on breastfeeding
Breast milk contains LC-PUFAs and in particular ARA and DHA. DHA levels in breast milk vary considerably depending on the mother’s diet, so DHA supplementation will significantly increase the DHA content of breast milk.
EFSA claims :
- DHA contributes to the maintenance of the normal brain function
- DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision
- DHA maternal intake contributes to the normal development of the eye, to the normal brain development of the foetus and breastfed children
Our solution :
DHA-rich, vegan and allergen-free microalgae oils and capsules :
- Omegavie DHA 400 Algae Sensory
- Omegavie DHA 400 Algae Sensory Capsule
- Omegavie DHA 750 Algae Sensory
- Omegavie DHA 750 Algae Sensory Capsule