A recent study suggests that children whose mothers consume enough omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy may have enhanced problem-solving abilities in infancy. The researchers discovered that 9-month-old infants whose mothers had consumed DHA-fortified bars during pregnancy performed better on a problem-solving test than those whose mothers did not include DHA in their diets.
DHA, also known as docosahexaenoic acid, is a crucial omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish such as salmon, sardines, and tuna. Due to its significant role in brain development, experts recommend that pregnant women consume 300 milligrams (mg) of DHA daily.
However, studies indicate that only a small number of women in the United States meet this recommended intake.
The recent findings, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, suggest that pregnant women who consume sufficient DHA may positively impact their infants’ cognitive abilities.
The study involved 29 women in their 24th week of pregnancy. Half of the participants were randomly assigned to consume a cereal bar supplemented with 300 mg of DHA from fish oil, while the other half consumed a bar with added corn oil for comparison. On average, the women consumed five bars per week.
At 9 months of age, the infants underwent standard tests to measure problem-solving and memory. The problem-solving task involved retrieving a toy hidden under a cloth.
Overall, the researchers found that infants in the DHA group performed better on the test compared to those in the comparison group. However, there was no difference between the two groups in terms of memory performance.
This study highlights the potential benefits of adequate DHA intake during pregnancy for infants’ problem-solving skills, emphasizing the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in early brain development.
Omega 3’s are normally found in fish and flax seeds. It is not recommended to eat much fish while pregnant due to the mercury content so you can take the oil instead.
Udo’s Choice makes a nice omega 3-6-9 oil that you can take in liquid or pill format. It is reasonably priced and not that bad tasting. It is stored in the refrigerator section of most health food stores.
