30 Weeks Fetal Development

Normal development of the fetus depends on many things. However, the nutritional intake of the mother is of paramount importance. prenatal vitamins are always recommended, especially those rich in folic acid, vitamin C and other important nutrients. In recent years, doctors have begun to recommend supplements of omega-3 too.

The omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are found primarily in fish and fish oils. Pregnant women are advised not to consume more than two servings of fish per week because of the risk of contamination by mercury. mercury intake during pregnancy causes many birth defects and may cause miscarriage.

If they are tested for mercury and other contaminants, fish oil supplements are the best solution to ensure adequate intake of omega-3. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are essential for normal fetal development, particularly for the normal development of brain and eyes.

DHA is found in breast milk but not cow's milk or infant formula, unless the formulas are fortified with DHA. Approximately 40% of nerve cells in the brain are composed of DHA. Nearly 60% of fatty acids in the retina, an area in the back of the eye responsible for central vision, are DHA.

Early studies have shown that children who were breastfed score higher on IQ tests, were less likely to have behavioral problems, such as ADHD, and have fewer allergies. It took years for researchers to know exactly what was lacking in the diets of infants fed formula that was the difference.

Today, we realize that the difference is DHA. Most infant formulas are now fortified with it, as a result.

blood levels of DHA from mother to drop about 30% after birth. The decrease is considered at least partially responsible for postpartum depression. Many studies have shown that low levels of DHA in the blood are associated with depressive disorders and suicidal behavior. Thus, DHA not only important for normal fetal development, it is also important for the mental health of mother.

Supplementation is recommended for women who are nursing, to provide the necessary DHA for brain growth and development of visual acuity. It also ensures that the mother does not suffer from deficiencies.

Flax supplements are promoted by some sources for omega-3. But, like other plant sources, flaxseed does not provide DHA. If the mother is a strict vegan or objects to fish oil supplements for another reason, seaweed supplements are an alternative. They cost more, but some of them are rich in DHA. This is what fish eat.

Normal development of the fetus is not the only issue that researchers have looked on the intake of Omega-3. The average diet is low in omega-3, but rich in omega-6. The researchers believe that dietary imbalance may lead to "larger babies" and an increased risk of obesity in childhood.

Omega-6 fatty acids are the main component of corn oil. Most meats contain more omega-6 to 3 seconds. The only logical way to correct the imbalance, to ensure normal fetal development, protect the health of mother and perhaps reduce the risk of childhood obesity is to fish oil supplementation.