Did you know that your need for omega-3 increases when you're pregnant? This is probably no news to many. But do you know why you need more omega-3 during pregnancy than otherwise?
The key lies in the fatty acid DHA
Omega-3s are important for your health at all stages of life. However, health authorities recommend that you get more of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA during pregnancy than you might normally do. The need for omega-3s increases during pregnancy because the fetus needs the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid – often abbreviated as DHA.
What is so special about DHA?
DHA fatty acid is long, has a flexible structure and is taken up by the retina and brain. It is important for fetal development, especially for the formation of the brain and nervous system. Both the brain and eyes of the fetus develop rapidly, and when consumed in sufficient amounts, DHA contributes to the normal development of the eyes and brain of the fetus.*
Where do you get DHA from?
You get DHA through the food you eat – mainly from marine sources. It is recommended to eat fish, preferably oily fish such as mackerel, herring or salmon. All the nutrition the fetus receives comes from the mother. How much DHA the fetus receives via the placenta depends on how much you yourself get through your diet.
Do you need DHA supplements?
If you have a varied diet with normal eating habits and enough fatty fish, you should basically be getting what you need during pregnancy. In addition, your midwife or doctor can give you guidance on which foods or supplements you may need more or less of.
What about those of you who don't eat much fish?
We humans are different, and in the same way, women can experience pregnancy differently. Some feel sick for large parts of their pregnancy. Nausea, acid reflux and an uneven appetite are perhaps not completely unknown. Maybe fish is not what you most want for dinner.
If you are unsure whether you are getting enough DHA through your diet, it may be a good idea to supplement with an omega-3 supplement that contains enough DHA.*
Romega® contains 3 times more DHA than EPA
Romega® is rich in DHA and contains three times more DHA than EPA. The high content of DHA makes Romega® a good option for those who are pregnant and want to make sure you get enough DHA every day.
Just two capsules of Romega® cover the entire daily requirement of omega-3 and DHA recommended by Norwegian health authorities for pregnant women.
*) A beneficial effect is achieved with a daily intake of 200 mg DHA, in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250 mg DHA and EPA.
