DHA, MATERNITY & MOTHERHOOD
Even though everyone needs DHA in their diet or through supplementation, it is clear that intake is particularly important during the first stages of life. In fact, there are several areas of the baby’s development that are supported by omega-3 intake:
• Brain development & function
• Eye development & function
• Normal nervous system development
• Attention span
• Motor skills & hand-eye coordination
As for maternal benefits, studies also suggest that adequate DHA intake may support the mental health of the mother. Developing infants rely on their mother for DHA, and receive it through the placenta during pregnancy and through breast milk when nursing. Numerous health bodies globally thus recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding women increase their intake of omega-3 DHA to meet the heightened needs during these periods.