Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Neonatal Health and Development

Research reveals that omega-3 dietary supplements consumed during pregnancy can raise the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) levels in the blood of both mothers and their newborns through the umbilical cord connection.

“Maternal omega-3 supplementation resulted in the beneficial lowering of the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio.”

Researchers found that enrichment of the maternal diet with omega dietary supplements led to an increase in serum docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) levels by ~1.18 and 1.37 times higher, respectively, as compared to the non-supplemented mothers.
In this prospective cohort study, 161 pregnant women were administered dietary questionnaires to provide information on their dietary fat consumption and use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Umbilical cord blood samples of mothers and newborns were collected at delivery to assess serum n-3 and n-6 fatty acids.

Omega supplements increase DHA and EPA levels in pregnant women

The results showed that 40% of the pregnant women who consumed omega-3 dietary supplements had significantly higher levels of DHA and EPA in their serum compared to those who did not consume omega supplements. 
Previous research has shown that increased serum levels of DHA and EPA during pregnancy prevent structural and functional deficiencies of the placenta and preterm labour and delivery; lower the risk of pre-eclampsia, and may increase the birth weight. Hence, these findings emphasise the potential benefits of omega-3 dietary supplements during pregnancy.

Omega supplements for optimal LC-PUFA status in developing neonates

Gas chromatography-flame ionization detection techniques were used to measure serum levels of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids in pregnant women and their neonates at the time of labour. Demonstrating that omega-3 dietary supplements have a significant impact on the LC-PUFA status of developing neonates. LC-PUFAs can penetrate the umbilical cord, resulting in elevated levels of EPA and DHA in the neonate’s blood. 
Earlier studies indicate that these increased levels are associated with improved cognitive performance and behaviour and are essential for early visual development.
Therefore, experts recommend the use of omega-3 dietary supplements in pregnant women as the most effective way to ensure optimal LC-PUFA status in developing neonates. 

Effective way to enhance maternal and infant LC-PUFA levels 

The optimal development of neonates depends on the maternal LC-PUFA level during pregnancy and delivery, which is demonstrated to be significantly increased by omega-3 supplementation. This is crucial for pregnant women who may have trouble obtaining LC-PUFA–rich foods, such as fish, seafood, and supplements, because of the methylmercury contamination concerns.
To promote better maternal and neonatal health and development, the results emphasise the need for raising awareness and accessibility for LC-PUFA–rich foods and supplements for pregnant women without apprehension of methylmercury contamination. 
This study contributes to the growing body of evidence, supporting the clinical recommendation of ~200 mg of DHA intake daily for pregnant women. However, the dosage and duration of supplementation should be carefully considered and monitored to ensure optimal outcomes, particularly for the benefit of reducing the risk of preterm birth. 

Reference
Bro´s-Konopielko M, Białek A, Johne M, et al. Increased LC PUFA levels in the serum of pregnant women and their children as a result of dietary supplementation with ‘omega’ fatty acids. Nutrients. 2023;15(1):231.