Source: OmegaQuant
Introduction: Pregnancy – a special phase of life
Pregnancy is an exciting and often challenging time. What can I eat? How much exercise is healthy? What should I avoid? Questions like these accompany many expectant mothers every day. One thing is clear: a balanced diet plays an important role in the well-being of mother and child.
In addition to folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid – is increasingly attracting scientific and public attention. Dietary supplements containing DHA, or possibly supplements, are a much-discussed topic, particularly during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is DHA and why is it relevant?
DHA is one of the polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. It is found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, among others. The human body can only produce DHA in very limited quantities, so sufficient intake through food is necessary.
During pregnancy, DHA is transferred to the unborn child via the placenta. After birth, it is passed through breast milk or DHA-fortified infant formula.
DHA and child development
Brain and vision: support from DHA
In late pregnancy—especially in the third trimester—the need for DHA increases. The fetus's brain and central nervous system are rapidly developing during this period. Various organizations, including the WHO, recommend that pregnant women consume an average of 300 mg of DHA daily—ideally from fatty fish.
Studies indicate that adequate DHA levels in the mother's blood may be associated with cognitive and attentive behavior in the child during infancy. These relationships are currently being further investigated scientifically.
Premature birth: What role does DHA play?
Premature babies (those born before 37 weeks of gestation) are more susceptible to health challenges. Some studies suggest that adequate intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA may be associated with a lower risk of preterm birth.
A systematic review evaluated over 70 studies involving more than 20,000 women. It showed that a daily intake of 500 to 1,000 mg of DHA was associated with a reduction in preterm births. However, these results should be interpreted with caution, as the cause of preterm births is multifactorial and cannot be influenced by diet alone.
DHA and emotional well-being after birth
Possible connection with mood
Several observational studies and smaller clinical trials have examined the relationship between DHA intake during pregnancy and postpartum emotional well-being. They observed that women with higher blood DHA levels tended to report fewer depressive symptoms after childbirth.
A Norwegian study showed an increased rate of symptoms that could indicate postpartum depression in women with DHA levels below 5%. A US pilot study with 52 participants also showed a trend toward fewer depressive symptoms in the group that took a DHA-containing fish oil supplement.
These results indicate possible associations, but do not constitute proof of a therapeutic effect . In Germany, dietary supplements are not permitted to make claims regarding the treatment or prevention of diseases.
Conclusion: DHA – a valuable supplement during pregnancy?
DHA is a nutritionally important component of the diet – especially for pregnant women. Targeted intake through DHA-rich foods such as fatty sea fish or – in consultation with a specialist – dietary supplements can be beneficial.
Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before taking supplements. Their individual nutritional situation and potential risks should be taken into account.
Notice
This article is for general information purposes only and does not replace medical or nutritional advice. For individual recommendations, please consult a qualified professional.