During pregnancy, it is increasingly recommended that pregnant women consume omega 3s, a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish, game, seeds, and plants. They help provide your baby with energy and materials necessary for good physical and mental growth, although many women are unaware of the benefits of these nutrients.
According to pediatrician Jacques Simard of the Laval Pediatric Centre, omega 3s influence the development of a baby’s retina and brain and help the immune system.
Dr. Simard states: "The brain grows rapidly, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy and during the first two years of a child’s life. DHA (which is part of the lining of the brain) accumulates early and quickly. So it is very important for mothers and nursing mothers to increase their consumption of essential fatty acids during this period."
Omega-3 (DHA) and 6 (ARA) act as building blocks for a baby’s brain and immune system, allowing him to fight off certain allergens and microbes.
Ideally, it is preferable to eat foods that contain omega naturally, because the quality of supplements in tablet form is not known.
Fresh salmon, sole and cod are excellent sources of omega. Choose fish carefully because of the mercury they may contain. Many foods such as eggs and milk also have omega added omega, and are good choices as well.