Omega-3 oils are highly beneficial to mothers and infants

They are essential to developing the brain, as well as the central nervous system and the retina. However, DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that the human body cannot manufacture. During your pregnancy, polyunsaturated fatty acids are incorporated into fetal tissues including the brain and retina. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in particular, is needed to support the development and function of the central nervous system.

Recent surveys indicate that globally, pregnant women eat very little fish and therefore do not consume enough omega-3 fatty acids. This is primarily due to their concerns about the adverse effects of mercury and other contaminants on the developing fetus. A study conducted on pregnant Canadian women found that 90% of participants fell below the suggested amount calculated by Dietary Reference Intake recommendations.

Clinical trials revealed that higher intakes of DHA from fish or from supplementation resulted in infants with better hand-eye coordination and locomotion skills.

Increased DHA intake has been linked to improved birth weights and enhanced immunity.