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Why DHA supplements During Pregnancy Matter: A Science-Based Guide

  • Writer: Admin
    Admin
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

DHA during pregnancy is essential for healthy fetal brain development. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid, makes up over 40% of total omega-3s in the brain (1) and 15% of fatty acids in the frontal cortex (2). During pregnancy, DHA for pregnancy becomes particularly important in the last trimester, when the fetal brain undergoes its growth spurt (1).


DHA is essential for brain development

What is DHA and Why Is It Important During Pregnancy?

DHA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid that supports the structure and function of neurons. Scientific evidence shows that DHA supplements during pregnancy deserve attention, ~ 60% of the brain's dry weight consists of fatty acids (4). Various research has shown that DHA is essential in:

 

  • Enhances brain membrane fluidity (3)

  • Promotes neurogenesis (formation of new neurons) and synaptogenesis (creation of connections between neurons) (3)

  • Regulates nerve growth factors and ion channels (4)

  • Protects fetal neurons from oxidative stress (4)

  • Maintain blood-brain barrier integrity (2)

  • Supports the serotonin and dopamine pathways, essential for mood and cognition (4)


Clinical studies have shown that DHA supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of early pre-term birth (8), enhance visual acuity (9) and may have positive impact on cognitive developments (10). 


DHA is essential for brain development

When and How Much Should Pregnant Women Takes DHA?

Maternal DHA stores often diminish because roughly 67 - 75mg/day of DHA were utilized by the fetus for nervous system development (7), and many don’t get enough through diet.

 

How Much DHA Do Pregnant Women Need?

  • Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia (6): 200mg DHA daily

  • Women with low DHA status or increased risk of preterm birth (5): 600–1000 mg DHA per day or combined with EPA

 

Best time to take DHA during pregnancy:

Ideally, the DHA supplementation should begin early preferably in the second trimester (not later than 20 weeks of gestation) and continue until childbirth. This ensures adequate accumulation for the crucial third trimester when the fetal brain undergoes its rapid growth phase (5).



Final Thoughts: DHA for Pregnancy Health

DHA is a crucial nutrition component during pregnancy. Numerous scientific evidence highlighted how DHA impacts fetal brain development and supports key cognitive & visual functions. Most women don’t consume enough DHA through diet, additional DHA via supplementation is often necessary.


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The True Origin of DHA

Not all DHA supplements are created equally. The source of DHA has s huge impact in terms of quality, purity and sustainability especially during pregnancy. Find out more about Fermentalg® - the original source of DHA here.


FAQs:

Q1: How much DHA should a pregnant woman take?

Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) for Malaysia recommend 200mg daily or up to 1000mg per day. Research suggests 600mg to 1000mg daily for those with low DHA levels or at risked of preterm birth.

Q2: When should I start taking DHA in pregnancy?

Q3. How does DHA contribute to fetal brain development during pregnancy? 

Q4. Are there any risks associated with not getting enough DHA during pregnancy?


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Aqurate Ingredients is an international player in supplying functional ingredients and providing innovative solutions to the food & beverage, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical industry. We believe, a satisfied customer is a repeat customer.

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