The March of Dimes is a not-for-profit organization whose mission it is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Through research, community services, education and advocacy, they strive to carry out this mission. March of Dimes might be best known for their recommendations that women of childbearing age to take 400 mcg of folic acid daily to help prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. Because of their far reaching efforts, most women are now aware of the importance of taking this vital nutrient for a healthy pregnancy.
Recently, the March of Dimes has made a new recommendation for pregnant women – the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. Specifically, they are recommending that women should get at least 200 mg of DHA daily. For women concerned about the presence of mercury in fish, or who do not eat fish, they recommend obtaining the DHA from a supplement containing at least 200 mg.
The March of Dimes has added this important nutrient to its recommendations only after careful examination of the existing science. That science is hard to ignore when it comes to DHA and infant brain development. Kudos to March of Dimes for their recognition of this essential nutrient. Not only is DHA important for baby, but it is also important for mother. The baby takes what nutrients she needs from her mother, often depleting the mother’s own stores. So during pregnancy and throughout breastfeeding, nutrients are funneled to the baby first. Mom gets whatever is leftover. Proper diet and supplementation of pregnant and breastfeeding women is crucial for the health of both mom and baby.
Renew Life’s Norwegian Gold Critical Omega contains a balance of EPA and DHA, with 240 mg of DHA. For those looking for more DHA, Critical DHA contains 500 mg. Ultimate Fish Oils are third-party tested and certified by the International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) for freshness, purity and potency. The IFOS program is a world leader in Omega-3 testing, ensuring Norwegian Gold oils meet or surpass all world pharmaceutical standards – including the Norwegian Medicinal Standard.
So if you’re considering pregnancy, consider taking a DHA supplement – healthy oils have great benefits.