Clinical studies show that the omega-3s may help to optimize birth weight, increase nutritional value of mother's milk and contribute to early development of the infant brain and vision.
They may also have a positive effects on the pregnancy.
Women with lower stores of those fatty acids have more risk of developing pre-eclampsia, also known as toxemia.
Pre-eclampsia which occurs in 5-10% of all pregnancies, is leading cause of maternal mortally, preterm delivery, fetal growth retardation, and perinatal mortality.
Supplementation from diet or supplements ensures that a woman's adipose tissue contains a reserve of these fatty acids for the developing fetus and the breast-fed newborn infant.
This contributes to the optimal brain development of the baby.
Human milk contains those essential nutrients, unlike those of other animals.
There are two categories: omega 3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
The omega-3 fatty acids are: alpha-linolenic acid (LNA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
The omega-6 fatty acids are: linoleic acid (LA), and arachidonic acid (AA).
Recommendation The recommendations for dietary supplementation should be adopted at the beginning of pregnancy, but there may be benefits for all women who are considering becoming pregnant.
Fish and fish oils that are high in both DHA and EPA could be found in ocean fish and fresh tuna preferable to canned.
Shark, mackerel, swordfish and tilefish should be avoided.
Eggs enriched with DHA could be used.
Also canola oil, flaxseed, walnut oil and hemp oil are also a good source.
Fortified dietary foods are also a good choice of fatty acids such as eggs, milk, juice, bread and pasta.
Walnuts and pumpkin seeds can also be taken.
Green leafy vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, kale, parsley, spinach, watercress is also a good supplement in a healthy diet.
Other conditions influenced by omega-3 fatty acids supplementation Diabetes can alter the fatty acid profile of mother's milk, and also diets such vegetarians, vegans, macrobiotic can also have the same effect, if they do not include seafood or omega-3 supplements.
ALA, DHA and EPA are important for preventing ischemic cardiovascular disease in women of all ages.
Those essential nutrient can help prevent the development of certain cancers, such as those of the breast and colon, uterus, and the skin.
The omega-3 supplementation are also likely to reduce the risk of postpartum depression, hypertension, diabetes.
The amounts of omega-3 fatty acids in the diet vary from person to person and should be adjusted according to each one needs with a healthy diet and good supplements.