Studies have shown that the polyunsaturated fats contained by omega 3 fatty acids play an important role in the growth and development of small children.
It is a known fact that many pregnant women do not include enough omega 3 fatty acids in their diet during their pregnancy. This happens because one of the richest supplies of omega 3 is fish, but the mercury levels found in fish can cause serious problems to the pregnant woman and the fetus.
It is important to have the right intake of omega 3 during the pregnancy as these fatty acids are key elements in the neural and retinal development of the fetus. The DHA is one of the most important components in the grey matter of the brain. At this early stages of life, the fetus cannot produce any DHA or omega 3 acids on its own and that is why pregnant women are advised to take omega 3 supplements.
Studies conducted in recent years have linked the presence of omega 3 fatty acids in the grey matter of the brain to the level of cognitive functions. Also the IQ level and the ability to numerically and verbally reason in small children are influenced by the omega 3 fatty acids.
Recent medical reports have focused in finding more about the influence of omega 3 during pregnancy.
It has been found that a high rate of mental diseases can be attributed to a low level of omega 3 fatty acids during pregnancy. Depression, schizophrenia as well as ADD are influenced by low serotonin production, which is influenced by the level of omega 3.
But not only pregnant women should be interested in taking omega 3 supplements. Nursing women also benefit from these fatty acids, because they are transmitted through the maternal milk to the new born baby.
Studies have also shown that if a pregnant woman’s diet includes enough omega 3 fatty acids, she witnesses a reduced occurrence of postpartum depression.
The labor is also made easier by taking omega 3 supplements by pregnant women.
Another benefit these fatty acids have is that they reduce the risk of having a premature birth.
As many studies have shown, the strong relationship between omega 3 and pregnancy, more and more medical organizations recommend that medics prescribe omega 3 supplements to pregnant women due to the benefits they offer to both the mother, and the unborn baby.