Pregnant women drink fish oil: Benefits and notes attached

Many pregnant women drink fish oil with the belief that o mega-3, fatty acids in fish oil, is beneficial for both pregnant women and the formation and comprehensive development of the fetus. So what is the real damage of this? 

Several studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in the baby's neurological development, especially brain and eye development. Therefore, scientists recommend that pregnant mothers should consume omega-3 rich foods in the diet so that their babies can receive these wonderful benefits. So how much fish oil for pregnant women is safe and what should be taken while using this supplement? Please join aFamilyToday Health to learn through the article below. 

Is it safe for pregnant women to drink oil?

According to experts, whether or not it is safe to take fish oil during pregnancy will depend on the type of oil you add to your body, specifically as follows:

Fish oil obtained from the flesh of the fish is considered safe

Oils obtained from fish liver (such as cod liver oil) are not safe for pregnant women because they contain high levels of retinol (vitamin A), putting the fetus at risk of birth defects.

When used properly, fish oil benefits your pregnancy.

Benefits of taking fish oil during pregnancy

Fish oil benefits thanks to two types of omega-3 fatty acids : EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Especially DHA is an important structural component of brain and eye, DHA is especially important for fetal brain and retinal development in TCN III and up to 18 months after birth.

Balances prostate production : Omega-3s present in fish oil aid in the management of the prostate gland production that regulates blood pressure, blood clotting, inflammatory and allergic responses, gastrointestinal and renal function, hormone production and neurotransmitters.

Prevent mood disorders: EPA and DHA are known as 2 fatty acids that can help pregnant mothers improve positive and happy mood during pregnancy and after birth.

The development of the fetus: Studies show that taking fish oil during pregnancy will help her baby born in the future have a good development of eyes, brain, coordination of nerve movement, reducing the risk of low birth weight . 

Helps get pregnant and labor safely: Omega-3s in fish oil are also known to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia , preterm birth and weight control, avoiding the dangerous complications that you may encounter. .

Improving fetal immune system: Omega-3 has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, so the immunity of babies born to pregnant mothers who drink fish oil can be strengthened to help fight conditions. conditions such as allergies, the common cold, the flu, and other immune-mediated illnesses.

Unwanted side effects

Although there are good benefits to pregnant women, fish oil can still cause some side effects that you should be careful about, such as:

Adding too much fish oil will affect your ability to clot, as omega-3s reduce platelet stickiness.

Fish oil derived from freshwater fish species often has higher levels of mercury, which can harm the fetus, affecting the development of the baby's brain and nervous system. Therefore, pregnant mothers need to avoid consuming oil from sharks, tile fish (also known as yellow bass or yellow snapper), swordfish and king mackerel.

Pregnant women drink fish oil extracted from fish liver containing high levels of vitamin A can harm the baby in the abdomen.

Dosage for pregnant women to drink fish oil is suitable

The recommended daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids should be around 650mg, including 300mg DHA. So, you can probably consume about 3 grams of fish oil per day.

The nutritional value of fish oil

The nutrients in 100gm of fish oil have the following contents and values:

Nutrient Amount

Calo902kcal

Fat100g

Lipids

Total saturated fatty acids 21,290g

Total monounsaturated fatty acids 56,564g

Total polyunsaturated fatty acids (Omega-3) 15,604g

Cholesterol 766mg

Fish oils are safe for pregnant women

Fish oil derived from cold-water fish such as salmon , sardines, herring, tuna and anchovies are all considered safe for pregnant women. In addition, you should buy products from reliable manufacturers to eliminate the presence of mercury and other toxins in it.

Answers frequently asked questions

How long is it safe for pregnant women to drink fish oil?

There are no specific recommendations for taking fish oil during pregnancy. If fish or nuts are often included in your diet, you do not need to supplement this nutrient with oral pills. However, pregnant mothers can still drink fish oil 2 times per week, to supplement the necessary amount of omega-3 fatty acids.

Are fish oil and omega-3 the same?

No, fish oil and omega-3 are not the same thing. Fish oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and omega-3 is also found in flaxseeds, dark green vegetables, and walnuts.

Since the body cannot synthesize fatty acids, we have to depend on foods rich in omega-3, where fish is an excellent source of omega-3. If accepted by the doctor, the pregnant woman taking fish oil during pregnancy is a measure to help both mother and child become healthy.

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