It has been hypothesized that maternal intake of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) might reduce inflammation-mediated pregnancy disorders, such as spontaneous preterm birth.In a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled randomized trials of n‐3 PUFA supplements or dietary additions during pregnancy, n-3 PUFA reduced preterm birth <37 and <34 weeks, with a corresponding trend for reduction in perinatal death [2]. These findings support our practice of advising pregnant women to consume two to three weekly servings of seafood high in n-3 PUFA and low in mercury. If this is not possible, we suggest consumption of supplements or other food sources of n-3 PUFA to achieve docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake of at least 200 to 300 mg/day.
Source: Omega-3 fatty acid addition during pregnancy.AUMiddleton P, Gomersall JC, Gould JF, Shepherd E, Olsen SF, Makrides M SOCochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;11:CD003402. Epub 2018 Nov 15.
