Omega-3 EFAs have a derivative called DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Eight out of ten women are deficient in DHA. This and the Omega-6 derivative, arachidonic acid, are important structural elements of cell membranes. They form body tissue and are essential for brain development in a fetus. DHA is needed for the production of cell membranes in the ovaries.

Women should be supplementing EFAs at least three months before they want to become pregnant, since it takes time for DHA to be incorporated into human tissue. Arachidonic acid must also be present for DHA to be properly synthesized in a baby’s system.

A good pregnancy diet is well-balanced and addresses you and your baby’s specific needs. Omega-3 rich foods are particularly essential. Omega-3 foods can provide your baby with the energy and materials necessary to good physical and mental growth. Omega-3s are also important for your own health and well-being during pregnancy.

Omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are found in various foods, including fish, game, seeds, and plants. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are one of four types of fats your body gets through your food. Though Omega 3s are called “fatty acids,” they are actually very good for you and are a necessary component for both mental and physical health. Omega 3 fatty acids are often referred to as essential fatty acids. This is because they cannot be produced by your own body, but instead need to be obtained through essential foods or through Omega-3 fish oil supplements. As studies continue, fish oil has been attributed a range of benefits:

“WOMEN who take fish oil during pregnancy may give birth to children with improved hand-eye coordination, language skills and behaviour, an Australian study has found.

“Research by the University of Western Australia and the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research in Perth involved 98 pregnant women recruited from private obstetricians.

“The study initially looked at the effect of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, or omega 3 PUFA - which is contained in fish oil supplements - on immune function, disease susceptibility, foetal growth and development.” (From Pregnancy Weekly)

Fish oil has even had positive results in clinical studies relating to diabetes:

“Now, in the latest finding, scientists from Texas A&M University-Kingsville found that fish oil improves glucose uptake in muscle cells, according to results released Saturday at the 66th annual meeting of the American Diabetic Association in Washington, DC.” (From Sugar Shock!)

Fish oil is available from your local health store or click here to purchase from Physician’s Preference.

SOURCES: “Omega-3 Rich Foods and Pregnancy.” Pregnancy Nutrition. 15 June 2007

West, Zita. Fertility and Conception: the Complete Guide to Getting Pregnant. New York: DK Publishing, 2003.