Research: Time for an Oil Check: The Role of Essential Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Maternal and Pediatric Health

This article highlights the importance of omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) to the health of mothers, fetuses, infants, and children.

The authors begin by giving a brief overview of how the body uses EFAs. They note that many chronic illnesses can be traced to a high ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 EFAs, and that omega-3 supplementation has been useful in treating these illnesses. They outline evidence showing that pregnant mothers taking omega-3 supplements or with diets naturally high in omega-3 EFAs have lower rates of hypertension, preterm birth, and postpartum depression. Further, the brains of fetuses, infants, and children develop better in the presence of omega-3 EFAs. The authors conclude with a list of recommendations, for example, that omega-3 EFAs should be taken as a supplement during pregnancy and nursing. The authors caution that purified supplements should be used.