There is no other time in a woman’s life when she is more concerned with her nutrition than before and during her pregnancy. Every woman wants her child to have the best possible start in life. During the last two decades, one of the most significant medical advances in the topic of fetal health is the role of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 (n-3) polyunsaturated long-chain fatty acids are required for the development and growth of the central nervous system. Yet, they are not synthesized in the body and must be acquired from the food that you eat. The two major sources are fish or flax seed oil.

Most modern adults do not get enough omega 3 in the diet. Usually the levels of omega 3 deteriorate after the first pregnancy because there are no steps taken to replace the stores of the nutrients needed for the developing child. Each subsequent pregnancy causes the omega 3 levels to further deteriorate.

When the fetus does not get enough of this essential nutrient there can be problems with the visual and neurological development for as long as four years. It is estimated that approximately one-fifth of the brain‘s store of fatty acids. Recent research recommends adding supplements to the diet of pregnant women. This is key in improving the cognitive and visual function of the youngster.

The woman who neglects adequate nutrition in this family of fatty acids is more likely to suffer the medical complication of pre-eclampsia. This condition is also known as toxemia. Pre-eclampsia affects up to ten percent of all pregnancy and is characterized by perinatal mortality, fetal growth retardation, preterm delivery and maternal mortality. Lower stores of omega 3 nutrients is linked to a higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia.

Another benefit to both mother and child is the help that omega 3 nutrients provide to lower the risk of pre-term labor or pre-term delivery. If a woman has lower omega 3 levels, it is important to supplement the nutrient as early in the pregnancy as possible. This type of complication can be catastrophic. Adding the nutrients to the diet of the mother is believed to reduce incidents of post-partum depression.

Usually, getting needed stores of essential nutrients is done through eating a balanced and healthful choice of foods. In this instance, eating fish might be considered as the natural way to add more fatty acids to your pre-natal diet. However, studies are concluding that levels of mercury in fish are higher than a safe range for pregnant women to take, so there are some suggestions about avoiding fish higher up the food chain. The large predator fish such as mackerel, shark, fresh tuna and swordfish. Light tuna that is canned is considered to be safe.

Because mercury is a potent natural toxin that is potentially dangerous for babies. It can cause cognitive development delays and other health complications for growing children. It is suggested that pregnant women take omega 3 in a capsule form such as fish oil pills. Omega 3 is part of the formulation of two different pre-natal vitamin brands. Supplementation of the same nutrients in infant formula is recommended. If the mother is breast feeding, she should take supplements to pass the nutrients on to the baby in the milk.

Omega 3 fatty acids can be included in your diet well before you become pregnant, and as they provide benefits to the mother as well, there is no reason not to. The better your health is, the more healthy your baby will be in the end. Building up the level of omega 3 nutrients is one essential component to better maternal health.