What Is Dha In Prenatal Vitamins?

What Is Dha In Prenatal Vitamins?

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. It is found mainly in fish and is important for a variety of health functions in adults. Pregnant women depend on this component to promote the healthy development of the fetus. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the average woman only eats 2 ounces of the recommended amount of 8 to 12 ounces of fish per week during pregnancy. This is the reason why manufacturers of prenatal vitamins increasingly put more DHA in their products.

DHA before and after conception

Omega-3s, like DHA, are called essential fatty acids because they can only be obtained from diet or supplements. The development of the fetus depends on the health of the mother, and that is why it is important to consume the recommended amount of DHA before conception and during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association recommends taking a DHA supplement that provides between 300 and 600 milligrams per day for at least six weeks before conception and during pregnancy. Supplementation should also continue during lactation.

Effects on fetal development

When you think about fish oil, you might think about its benefits for the heart. DHA is healthy for the heart, but much more for the fetuses. Fatty acid guarantees the proper development of the brain and promotes better attention and learning practices in the future. It is also responsible for the health of the eyes, the development of the nervous system and the appropriate immune function.

Diet Fish Problems

Two considerable challenges can arise when it comes to consuming enough fish DHA. First of all is the fact that most Americans do not eat seafood that is sufficiently healthy, either because of lack of access or money. Another problem is the misconception that eating fish can harm the baby. Certain types of fish and shellfish, such as swordfish and shark, have high levels of mercury that can negatively affect the outcome of your pregnancy. But there are healthier options that are high in DHA and low in mercury. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends eating 12 ounces per week of anchovies, salmon or freshwater trout. You can also eat 6 ounces of tuna per week. DHA supplements can still help you get this essential nutrient without consuming fish.

Where to find the DHA supplements

Many generic names and brands of prenatal vitamins already contain DHA. If a special supplement lacks DHA, or has less than 300 milligrams, you can consider purchasing an additional supplement designed for pregnant women.Your doctor may even prescribe a prenatal vitamin with DHA. The options are numerous, so if you choose an over-the-counter version, you can ask your doctor to recommend a brand.

Other important characteristics of prenatal vitamins

DHA is just one component to consider in a supplement. Prenatal vitamins contain many of the same nutrients as multivitamins for adults, with a few ingredients in larger quantities. This is true with iron, which prevents anemia during pregnancy, as well as with iodine. Another important and often overlooked nutrient is folic acid. Also called vitamin B-9, which protects brain and spinal cord development, especially during the early stages of pregnancy. Kids Health recommends 400 micrograms a day before conception and during pregnancy. Folic acid is naturally present in orange juice and enriched grains, but even a balanced diet may not offer enough. Ensuring that your prenatal vitamin has DHA, folic acid and other vital nutrients can help ensure a healthy baby.

Video Tutorial: Prenatal Vitamins With DHA Good For Babies.

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