Mommy’s Bliss high potency omega-3 fish oil has been specially formulated for pregnant
mothers.
The demand for DHA in the body increases during pregnancy and a woman’s DHA levels
are likely to remain low for nine to 12 months after delivery. Consequently, an
adequate intake of DHA and EPA is particularly important during pregnancy and lactation
stages. During this time the mother must supply all the baby’s needs for DHA and
EPA. The constant drain on the mother's DHA reserves can easily lead to a deficiency
and some researchers believe that it could lead to other heath issues.
There is some evidence that the insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids may increase
the risk of premature birth and an abnormally low birth weight. It should also be
noted that there is emerging evidence that low levels of omega-3 acids are associated
with hyper activity in children as well.*
Omega 3 fatty acids are composed of α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA has been found to be important both to
mothers and children. Research shows that a significant DHA level is vital for optimal
fetal brain, retina and nervous system development.
While the FDA does not have any regulations established for a daily intake of DHA,
the National Institutes of Health and the International Society for the Study of
Fatty Acids and Lipids (NIH/ISSFAL) recommend a daily intake of 300mg for pregnant
and nursing mothers. American woman have been found to have an insignificant amount
of DHA in there diets. In a dietary study of 112 pregnant and nursing women, less
than 2 percent met the 300mg/day requirement.
*Fish Oils: The Essential Nutrients by Lars R. Larsen, MSc ChE (International Health
News, Issue 103, July 2000).
WARNING:
A healthy diet consists of eating fish and shell fish on a regular basis. Fatty
fish such as Tuna and Salmon are the most abundant sources of DHA and EPA. However,
the FDA and the EPA have advised certain at-risk groups (including pregnant and
nursing women) to avoid certain fish and limit the intake of fish and seafood. To
learn more, please read the FDA advisory on fish.