Omega 3 for pregnant women instructions. Can pregnant women take fish oil?

  • Date: 13.04.2019

Omega-3 PUFAs are actively accumulated in the central nervous system from the thirtieth week intrauterine development up to the third month of a newborn's life. Therefore, a sufficient intake of Omega-3 PUFAs in the body of a pregnant and lactating woman is vital for the correct formation and development of the fetus. For pregnant women, the need for micronutrients, including Omega-3 PUFAs, is 25% higher than for non-pregnant women of the same age. This is due to the fact that the mother must provide Omega-3 PUFAs for herself and the child.

According to the WHO recommendations (1999, 2003), pregnant and lactating women need a daily intake of at least 300 mg of Omega-3 PUFA. It has been established that the level of maternal Omega-3 PUFAs (DHA), which play an important role in the development of the fetal brain, decreases during pregnancy due to the active consumption of the fetus by the body. Data from a 15-year study in the UK indicate that mothers who received Omega-3 PUFAs in their diets had higher mental development in their babies. Consumption of Omega-3 PUFAs by pregnant and lactating women improves the mental development of fetuses and newborns

The body of a pregnant woman needs omega-3 fatty acids for prevention premature birth and miscarriage, reducing the risk of developing late toxicosis of pregnancy, Omega-3 fatty acids prevent the development of depression in pregnant women. Deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids in the body of the expectant mother is dangerous due to miscarriage or premature birth. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk of developing late pregnancy toxicosis. Omega-3 fatty acids prevent depression in pregnancy. ...

According to experts, babies born by mothers with a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids in adulthood are much more likely to develop essential, that is, no apparent cause, hypertension. Scientists believe that this is due to intrauterine developmental disorders of the pressure regulation center in the brain. Hypertension is not only an unpleasant, but also a life-threatening disease. ...

Omega-3 Research. The published results of a 15-year study conducted in the UK showed unequivocally that mothers who used omega-3 fatty acids in their diets during pregnancy have children with higher mental development. In addition, coordination and motor skills in these children are above average. Even their language and communication skills are better developed. For 15 years, Professor Jean Golding of the University of Bristol conducted research in which 14,000 pregnant women participated. Professor Golding also observed the children of these women, and in particular, their mental development. Another study was conducted by Dr. Joseph Hiblin of the US National Institutes of Health. On the basis of his research, he came to an unequivocal conclusion: the use of a diet enriched with omega-3 acids during pregnancy by a mother makes the child smarter. According to him, omega-3 improves the functioning of the child's brain - mental and language abilities and motor skills. ...

The use of Omega-3 PUFAs for the prevention and complex treatment thrombophilic disorders during pregnancy. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega-3 PUFA) play an extremely important role in the course of pregnancy and the formation of almost all organs and systems of the newborn. In addition to positive influence on the growth and development of the fetus, Omega-3 PUFA regulate lipid metabolism, prevent the development of inflammation, blood clots, cardiac arrhythmias, provide prevention of obstetric and postpartum complications, reduce the likelihood of premature birth and promote the birth of healthy children. ...

Omega-3 and baby development

. Eating fatty acids protects not only the heart and blood vessels human, but also have a general healing and strengthening effect on the child's body. Omega-3 PUFAs should be the most important components of a child's diet. With their deficiency, many functions of the cells of the growing organism are disrupted, the mental development of the child is slowed down, and skin diseases, digestion is upset, etc. From the first month of life, all children are prescribed fish oil or vitamin D. If this is not done, children develop rickets, which will require serious and long-term treatment. ...

The substance Omega 3 is necessary for the developing embryo in the mother's womb during pregnancy. In experiments on animals, it was found that the ability to learn is irreversibly impaired in young children (the brain is not developed harmoniously) if their mothers lacked the essential omega 3 fatty acid. This fatty acid is also necessary to preserve normal state retina of the eye. ...

14-08-2018

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This article is based on scientific evidence written by experts and reviewed by experts. Our team of licensed dietitians and beauticians strives to be objective, impartial, honest and present both sides of an argument.

Pregnancy is not only a joy, but a real test for female body... The health of the baby also depends on the state of health and mood of the expectant mother. Having learned about my situation, I turned to specialists with many questions. One of which was: "Is it possible to drink fish oil for pregnant women?" I was very interested in this question, since before pregnancy I took it regularly. But the instructions indicate that pregnancy is a contraindication to taking this supplement. What alarmed me! But my doctor dispelled all doubts and spoke in detail about the benefits of omega-3 for pregnant women.

During pregnancy, a woman's body is weakened, so many doctors prescribe dietary supplements, one of which is fish oil. Omega-3 for pregnant women is an essential acid that:

  • effectively fights toxicosis;
  • increases immunity (which is especially important for expectant mothers, since illnesses suffered during this period, even an innocent cold, directly affect the health of the baby);
  • improves the work of the cardiovascular and nervous system;
  • gives energy and strength;
  • removes cholesterol;
  • improves metabolism and thereby helps control weight gain;
  • improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails;
  • makes the skin elastic and elastic and is an excellent preventive measure against stretch marks. In addition, obstetricians recommend taking fish oil to avoid tearing during labor;
  • helps to cope with mood swings, anxiety and experiences that are so characteristic of women in position;
  • prevents premature birth;
  • has anti-inflammatory properties;
  • improves blood flow in the placenta;
  • helps the correct development of the brain and other organs in the fetus.

As you can see, pregnant women can not only drink Omega-3, but also need it! The main thing is to choose a quality one.

Which Omega-Z Supplements are Better for Pregnant Women?

You need to choose fish oil for pregnant women special. Fish oil is known to be obtained from the liver or muscle of fish that usually live in the wild. Therefore, apart from nutrients it contains toxins, various chemicals and harmful substances that can harm not only expectant mother but also to the child. It is best to give your preference to additives that have been purified and also have all the necessary certificates of quality and purity.

Pregnant women can take fish oil both in liquid form and in capsules. I will say from personal experience that from liquid fish oil I had to refuse. I have become too sensitive to the smell of fish. I came to the rescue. This additive is manufactured under strict quality control standards and is purified to remove all kinds of contaminants. The capsules are made from fish gelatin, they are odorless and tasteless (which made me very happy).


Where can I buy fish oil for pregnant women

Omega-3s for pregnant women are best bought from trusted and trusted locations. For me, this is the iHerb store. First, it has an incredible range of products, including fish oil for pregnant women. , from well-known and reliable manufacturers. Secondly, reasonable prices even taking into account delivery. Thirdly, constant profitable offers and promotions.

How drink omega-3 during pregnancy

So, the rules for taking fish oil during pregnancy:

  • The supplement should be taken during or after meals. It is important! Because if you drink Omega-3 on an empty stomach, you may experience nausea, vomiting or an upset stomach.
  • It is necessary to take courses and be sure to take breaks. I drank from 3 to 13 weeks (when they form and actively develop internal organs and nervous system), 14 - 18 weeks - a break, and resumed taking from 19 to 29 weeks.
  • Be sure to follow the instructions. The average daily intake of fish oil for pregnant women ranges from 500-700 mg / day. But it is better that the dosage is prescribed by the doctor, taking into account the characteristics of the body and the state of health. Each trimester has a different dose.
  • Stop reception at 8 months (29-30 weeks). The fact is that fish oil affects blood clotting, thinning it, which can cause bleeding in the event of childbirth.

I will repeat again that before taking it, you should definitely consult with your doctor!

Omega-3s are a family of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential nutrients for the health and development of the human body. Unfortunately, they are not synthesized by the human body and therefore must be ingested with food or in the form of dietary supplements.

In the typical diet of the average person in developed countries, omega-3 fatty acids are not available in sufficient quantities. Research shows that the two most beneficial types of omega-3s are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). And while EPA and DHA naturally occur together and work together in the body, research shows that each of these fatty acids has unique properties.

EPA supports the heart, the immune system, and the inflammatory response. DHA supports the functioning of the brain, eyes and central nervous system, therefore it is uniquely important for pregnant and lactating women.

Why are Omega-3s so important?

Adequate intake of omega-3 fats is essential to maintain a balanced production of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help regulate many important physiological functions, including blood pressure, blood clotting, nerve transmission, inflammatory and allergic reactions, the function of the kidneys and the gastrointestinal tract; and the production of other hormones.

Depending on the type of fatty acids taken from food by the pregnant woman, some types of prostaglandins may be produced in large quantities, while others may not be produced at all. An imbalance of prostaglandins can lead to illness. The role of omega-3s in the production of beneficial prostaglandins may explain why these fatty acids provide so many health benefits, such as preventing cardiovascular disease, improving cognitive function, and regulating inflammation.

High doses of omega-3s are used to treat and prevent mood disorders. New research on the benefits of omega-3s has highlighted the potential benefits of these fatty acids in treating a wide range of diseases, including cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Benefits of Omega-3s for Pregnant Women and Fetus

Scientists have recognized that omega-3 fatty acids are essential for early development of a child's nervous and visual systems. The standard diet of people living in developed countries causes significant deficiencies in these essential nutrients. Omega-3 deficiency during pregnancy is exacerbated by the fact that pregnant women are depleted because the fetus uses omega-3s to develop the nervous system.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are also used after birth to make breast milk. Each subsequent pregnancy depletes the mother's body more and more. Studies have shown that supplementation with fish oil containing EPA and DHA in pregnant women has a positive effect on the development of the child's visual system and brain. Research has also shown that more high level Omega-3 intake can reduce the risk of allergies in young children.

Omega-3 fatty acids have a positive effect on pregnancy itself. Increased intake of EPA and DHA has been shown to prevent preterm labor and reduce the risk of preeclampsia and overweight newborns. Omega-3 deficiency also increases a mother's risk of depression. This explains why postpartum mood disorders (mood disorders) can get worse and start earlier with subsequent pregnancies.

What foods contain Omega-3

The best sources of EPA and DHA are cold water fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, and herring. Many people are justifiably concerned about mercury and other toxins in fish (see). This is especially worth considering during pregnancy. For this reason, taking a refined fish oil supplement is often the safest option for getting EPA and DHA. High quality fish oil supplements from renowned manufacturers are able to provide the body with the necessary amount of EPA and DHA without any health risks.

Many people use ground flaxseed or flaxseed oil and other omega-3 foods as alternatives, as these foods contain omega-3 fatty acids. However, flaxseed contains a shorter-chain omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is different from the long-chain EPA and DHA. EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids that the body needs for optimal health and development. Previously, scientists believed that the human body can convert ALA to EPA and DHA, but current research shows that this conversion is very small. Fish oil is a more reliable source of EPA and DHA. In addition to taking fish oil, pregnant women are advised to eat fatty varieties of small-sized fish, such as herring, anchovies, salmon, etc. You can learn more about fish varieties containing omega-3 on this page - Omega-3 in fish: Table of contents of Omega-3 in various fish.

Omega-3s during pregnancy can be easily obtained from oily fish.

Omega-3 Safety in Pregnancy

Taking quality fish oil is safe during pregnancy. Fresh, large marine predatory fish can often contain toxins (such as mercury) that the body builds up over its life. These toxins can be almost completely eliminated in the production and processing of fish oil thanks to high quality raw materials and advanced processing technology.

Some brands of fish oil are of a higher quality than others. A reputable fish oil manufacturer must be able to provide documentation of third-party laboratory test results that indicate the purity level of their product.

ISSFAL (International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids) has established the following recommended minimum intakes of omega-3 fatty acids:

Age Dosage
Infants (1-18 months) 0-7 kilograms: 32 mg / kg EPA + DHA
Children (1.5-15 years old) 15 mg / kg EPA + DHA
Adults (15-115 years old) 500 mg EPA + DHA (minimum 220 mg EPA and 220 mg DHA)
Pregnant and lactating women 300 mg DHA daily

To raise the mood of the mother and the correct development of the nervous system of the unborn child, omega-3 acids are indispensable. More than ever, they should be on the menu of pregnant women. But how to ensure adequate intake of fatty acids? Let's take a look at how to take omega-3s during pregnancy.

Omega-3 fatty acids are allies of human health, in particular, they ensure the normal functioning of the heart and blood vessels. For many reasons, they are very important for the body of a pregnant woman.

What do omega-3s carry for mom?

Every adult needs omega-3s, but a mom-to-be needs them twice as much! All studies indicate that fatty acids are very beneficial for a woman's morale. A lack of omega-3 in pregnant women can contribute to fetal developmental delays, depression, fear of future childbirth, and self-doubt.

Daily consumption of foods rich in fatty acids increases the duration of pregnancy by an average of 6 days, which is an excellent prevention of premature labor.

How do omega-3s affect the unborn child?

In the middle of the third week of development of a fertilized egg, the nervous system of the embryo begins to form. Tens of billions of cells are produced within a few months. The most important role at this stage is played by omega-3s, thanks to which the formation of neurons occurs.

During the last trimester, the baby's brain grows almost 5 times and omega-3s are the main energy resource for this process. A baby's brain weighs about 300g at the time of birth and is 60% fat. That is why a diet with a high content of essential acids is of great importance in the development of children's nervous psychomotor and visual organs.

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Plus, omega-3s have a lot to do with a child's learning ability. Serious research has confirmed the relationship between the IQ of children 8 years old with the percentage of fish in the diet during pregnancy.

Required dosage

Ideally, significant increases in fatty acid intake should begin before conceiving. If conception does not occur, omega-3s are stored in fat stores. Subsequently, they will be in full demand, since they play a crucial role in the full development of the embryo.

During this period, it can be recommended for consumption twice in the weekly menu, for example, such fish as salmon, tuna or mackerel. A woman's need for essential acids increases in the third trimester. During this period, the weekly fish menu can be expanded up to three times.

Where to look for fatty acids?

Significant amounts of omega-3 acids are found in plant foods, such as:

  • rapeseed, soybean, flaxseed vegetable oil;
  • walnuts;
  • flaxseeds;
  • pumpkin seeds;
  • legumes, especially red beans;
  • green vegetables: parsley, cabbage, spinach, mint.

Still, fish and seafood remain the main suppliers of fatty acids. The best dietary source is fatty fish such as salmon, herring, and trout. When choosing, it is advisable to limit the consumption of large fish of predatory species in order to avoid ingestion of mercury, which accumulates in their meat. You should also refuse to eat raw fish during pregnancy. Beware of canned fish with oil, as essential acids will dissolve in it.

When a pregnant woman eats fish meat, she enriches her body:

  • a large number of fatty acids;
  • essential nutrients, vitamins and trace elements.

Another source of omega-3s is meat and chicken eggs. Most of them are contained in meat products obtained from animals fed on grass. The meat of animals grown on compound feed does not contain omega-3. The maximum amount of essential acids is found in egg yolk, which frightens many of the high cholesterol content.

Omega-3 vitamins and medicines for pregnant women

The main problem is that the essential omega-3 fatty acids are not produced by the human body and can only be absorbed through food or nutritional supplements. That is why it is recommended that pregnant women take Omega-3 vitamins. Let's take a look at some of them.

Complex "Oligobs Grossesse Omega-3" contains a balanced combination of vitamins and minerals, the need for which increases in pregnant women. These include vitamins B, D3, as well as minerals, copper, zinc, selenium and iodine, which are essential for proper metabolic function at various levels.

Multivitamin complexes and preparations containing omega-3 essential acids are widely represented by other products:

  • "Multi-tabs" - omega-3 vitamins for pregnant women based on fish oil;
  • multivitamins "Pregnacare Plus" - they are designed for use during the period from conception to cessation of breastfeeding;
  • medicines of the Omega Vitrum series.

Also popular are dietary supplements, for example, "9 months Omega mom". The instructions for use of this tool contain the following instructions:

  • Recommended for use during pregnancy in such cases:
  • if there is a high risk of premature childbirth;
  • with repeated cases of miscarriage;
  • when placental insufficiency develops;
  • complication of pregnancy in the second or third trimester, accompanied by an increase in blood pressure.
  • The recommended dosage is one capsule with meals twice a day. You need to take vitamins for 30 days with a possible repeat of the course in 7-10 days.