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Is it safe to take DHA supplements while pregnant? |
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DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that is an important structural element of the brain and retina. In fact, DHA is considered by many to be a necessary component for optimal brain, visual, and nervous system development. While a baby is in the womb, the brain and nervous system grow more rapidly than in any other stage of infant or child development, so it is a good idea to ensure your diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can readily be found in fish and flaxseed oil (one tablespoon of flaxseed oil daily, 2-3 ounces of salmon several times a month). Check out Flaxseed: A Plant Powerhouse from the Nutrition Resource Center for additional information. The concern with taking DHA supplements is that they are not an FDA-regulated supplement so their purity is not dependable. Since their sources could be from fish high in mercury content which could be harmful during pregnancy it is best to avoid generic DHA supplements while pregnant. Mead Johnson (maker of Enfamil baby formula) makes a product called Expecta® LIPIL® which is a DHA supplement especially for pregnant and nursing moms. Expecta™ LIPIL® is made with DHA from a non-fish source, which is the only DHA source that is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in infant formula. Speak with your health care provider to ensure there are no reasons that DHA supplementation would be contraindicated. Tanya Jolliffe, Babyfit Nutritionist |
