Higher DHA Intake on Birth & Maternal Outcomes: Practical Pearls from Dr Susan Carlson

2 min read / 30.04.2021

Obstetrics / Gynaecology Public health Nutrition & Disease Management

Implications of DHA in early preterm birth and infant outcomes
Importance of pregnant women receiving adequate DHA for promoting infant health and development

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Summary:

Studies have observed that DHA supplementation is significantly associated with the reduction of early preterm birth.
DHA is implicated in the early programming of the autonomic nervous system, and of blood pressure in overweight or obese individuals.
Dr Carlson recommends women, whether pregnancy is planned or not, to consume 1–3 servings of seafood and eggs per week for adequate DHA to support the healthy development of their child.
Women at risk of low DHA status (vegetarians, those consuming little seafood or eggs, or twin pregnancies) can consider high-dose DHA supplementation.
To estimate whether women are receiving adequate amounts of DHA, healthcare professionals can ask about seafood or egg consumption, or refer patients to dietitians.

WYE-EM-066-APR-21