DHA in pregnancy

DHA-what is it?

DHA is otherwise known as docosahexaenoic acid. It belongs to the OMEGA-3 group of polyunsaturated fatty acids. They play a key role in fetal development, especially in II. and III. trimester of pregnancy. Since they are not produced by the human body, they must be supplied with the daily diet. DHA supplementation is recommended for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

DHA in pregnancy-functions

One of the most important functions of DHA acids is the proper development of nerve cells, or neurons, and the entire nervous system, as well as the retina. It has been proven that a deficiency of DHA acids in the diet of an expectant mother can lead to reduced cognitive abilities in children, lower IQ levels and also cause vision problems in the toddler. DHA deficiency also increases the risk of preterm labor and pre-eclampsia. Meanwhile, proper levels of DHA acids in the daily diet reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

DHA-where are they found?

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish and seafood. During pregnancy, however, consumption of marine fish should be reduced due to the risk of heavy metal contamination, mainly mercury. You should also give up eating fish and seafood in raw form. A high content of DHA acids is found, among others. In salmon, cod, tuna or sardines. They are also present in vegetable oils, algae or flaxseed.

DHA-supplementation during pregnancy

Since pregnant women should not consume marine fish in excessive amounts, according to the recommendations of the Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, supplementation with 200 mg of DHA in all pregnant women is advisable. If very small amounts of fish are consumed, these doses can be increased. In addition to DHA, moms-to-be should also supplement:

• iodine
• folic acid
• vitamin D
• iron.