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

2 min read /
Obstetrics / Gynaecology Public health Nutrition & Disease Management
Pregnant-mum-and-clock
  • 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

Reference

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