Influence of sociodemographic, lifestyle and genetic characteristics on maternal DHA and other polyunsaturated fatty acid status in pregnancy: A systematic review

The omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) have a number of established health benefits, most notably in inflammatory and immune conditions [1-3]. In maternal and infant health, an adequate supply of these fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (22:6n-3), is critical for supporting the development of the brain and visual system of the fetus [3-5]. DHA also has positive effects on a number of pregnancy outcomes, in particular the length of gestation and incidence of preterm birth [6].
Source: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids - Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Source Type: research