Why DHA intake is important during pregnancy
In many industrialized countries, the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), is low among the general population – and pregnant women are no exception. However, DHA plays a significant role during this phase of life: It contributes to fetal development, particularly the brain and eyes.
A study published in February in JAMA Network Open now provides evidence that DHA could also play a potential role in the child's cardiovascular health - especially in children with increased body weight.
Overview of the KUDOS study
The KUDOS study (Kansas University DHA Outcomes Study) was a placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial conducted at several hospitals in the Kansas City metropolitan area between 2006 and 2009. Its original goal was to assess cognitive development. Blood pressure development was also monitored secondarily.
The study involved 350 pregnant women. They received either 600 mg of DHA daily or a placebo. The children were regularly examined until the age of 6, including blood pressure measurements between the ages of four and six.
What was measured?
Blood pressure values in early childhood
Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure were measured every six months between the ages of four and six in 171 children, about half of whom were girls. An analysis showed that in children with increased body weight, blood pressure was, on average, lower if the mother had taken DHA during pregnancy.
DHA and possible protective mechanisms
While no health claims can be made regarding the preventive effect of DHA on high blood pressure in children, the data suggest that further research is warranted to better understand the relationship between maternal nutrition and later child development . DHA is an important building block for cell membranes and is present in high concentrations in the human brain and retina.
What does this mean for expectant mothers?
The study suggests a possible association between maternal DHA intake and certain physiological developments in the child. However, such an association cannot be considered a proven effect in the legal sense. Therefore, individualized advice from medical professionals is essential when selecting and dosing dietary supplements.
Recommendations for practice
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Pregnant women should discuss their personal nutritional situation with their doctor.
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DHA can be absorbed through suitable foods such as fatty sea fish.
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When supplementing with DHA preparations, attention must be paid to quality, purity and compliance with the permissible limits for contaminants.
