Both the mother and baby benefit greatly from the nutrients contained in fish oil. Since too much consumption of fish may result in adverse health effects (such as mercury poisoning), taking a fish oil capsule every day is an alternative way to get the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids found in fish. Since a whopping 85% of women are deficient in this vital dietary need, taking a supplement while pregnant is even more important.
Health Benefits for Mother
Every expectant mother hopes for a smooth delivery and uncomplicated pregnancy. Being proactive in prenatal care is one way to help achieve this. Pregnant women who took a fish oil supplement throughout their pregnancy were shown to have lower risks of breast cancer, pre-eclampsia and postpartum depression. They also had decreased chances of having a c-section delivery or preterm labor. Risk of brain loss related to pregnancy is also decreased for those women who took fish oil capsules.
Health Benefits for Baby
Babies benefit greatly from the omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil. A certain study revealed that those children whose mothers had taken the supplement during pregnancy scored higher in hand and eye coordination tests as well as vocabulary usage and development. Since the nutrients in fish oil help in better brain development, babies tend to have a high intelligence than those without it. A better central nervous system and eye formation is another benefit in development. After delivery, babies who received fish oil from their mother during pregnancy were reported to have fewer behavioral problems as well as better patterns in sleeping.
Choose the Right Capsule
Not all fish oil supplements are created equal. Though the temptation is strong to purchase the cheapest form of fish oil supplements, many health care professional advise against this practice. Cheaper and lower quality fish oil capsules may come from fish that is contaminated (think mercury) and polluted. This results from limited monitoring of the types of fish the oil is extracted from. This risk is not worth it for pregnant women whose diet is extremely important to the development of their baby. Buy higher quality and doctor endorsed brands of fish oil for the best benefits.
Where to Buy Fish Oil Capsules
Pregnant women can purchase fish oil supplements over the counter in most vitamin departments in grocery and health stores.
Proper Health and Prenatal Care
Women who are seeking to become pregnant and who are pregnant should take to their doctor about taking fish oil as a dietary supplement alongside prenatal vitamins. The health and medical benefits of the omega 3 contained inside them are something every expectant mother should consider. They should also consult a medical professional about additional dietary needs and supplements.
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