Why Omega-3 DHA is important for a healthy pregnancy

One of the most important aspects of pregnancy is maintaining a nutrientdense diet However it has been observed that an everyday diet during pregnancy does not need to differ significantly from the prepregnancy diet and the general rule of healthy eating remains to eat a balanced dietWhile all nutrients are equally important for expectant mothers folic acid iron vitamin D calcium iodine and omega3 DHA are critical for the overall development of the baby as well as a healthy pregnancy says Manu Sharma NeonatologistPaediatrician Max HealthcareHowever omega3 DHA is not always present in regular prenatal supplements and which is why many women have questions about the importance of DHA during pregnancy he addsMotherstobe should read on for more details by the expertWhat Is DHADHA or docosahexaenoic acid is an essential omega3 fatty acid that is not synthesised by our body and must be obtained through a diet rich in seafood like salmon tuna and anchovies or through the intake of supplements However it is not typically derived from daily food intake in an adequate amount if you are following a vegetarian dietA human babys brain develops rapidly especially during the third trimester in the mothers womb till the first two years of the babys life DHA is considered the building block of your babys brain as it amounts to 97 per cent of the omega3 fatty acid found in the brain and 25 per cent of the brains total fat content Because DHA is present in significant amounts in the brain and retina it helps support the babys brain and eye development as well as the central nervous systemIn fact DHA is not only necessary for babies but also for mothers Optimal DHA levels during pregnancy support a fullterm pregnancy as well as a healthy birth weight DHA has also been shown to reduce the risk of preeclampsia and support a mothers healthy mood after childbirthWhat Is the Ideal Amount of Daily DHA IntakeThe recommended amount of DHA intake during pregnancy is about 200mg per day However pregnant women in India are particularly found to be DHA deficient owing to a primarily vegetarian diet Therefore it is important that you know your DHA levels and change your diet or add supplements based on the results An athome blood test may help in assessing and monitoring your DHA levels without stepping out during this pandemicDHA in Breast MilkBreastmilk is a critical source of nutrition for newborns DHA which is naturally present in breast milk supports your babys cognitive function and has a positive impact on the babys vision For breastfed babies the recommended amount of DHA is 032 per cent to 035 per cent of the milk fat However because the amount of DHA in breast milk is determined by the mothers DHA intake through food the rates of absorption are bound to vary depending on the mothers dietary patternsTherefore testing breastmilk is a definitive way to check your DHA levels and provide the right nutrition to your baby for optimal growthHow Does One Ensure Adequate DHA ConsumptionYou can know your blood and breast milk DHA levels during pregnancy or lactation with the right and convenient athome diagnostic tools Based on the results you can modify your diet and incorporate DHArich foods to ensure your babys optimal development and good healthThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoeverAlso Read Mumbaibased parents share tips on inspiring LGBTQIA sensitivity in children