A recent nationwide cohort study conducted by researchers at the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute has revealed concerning trends in omega-3 fatty acid intake among pregnant women. Despite well-established recommendations advocating for omega-3 consumption during pregnancy for optimal maternal and offspring health, a significant portion of participants reported inadequate intake of these essential nutrients.
Published in Public Health Nutrition on February 27, the study titled “Demographic and health characteristics associated with fish and n-3 fatty acid supplement intake during pregnancy: results from pregnancy cohorts in the ECHO program” sheds light on the dietary habits of pregnant women across the United States. This study arrives amidst anticipated reports from the World Health Organization and U.S. National Academies on the risks and benefits of fish consumption during pregnancy later this year.
The research addressed a critical gap in previous studies by analyzing data from over 10,800 pregnant women regarding fish consumption and supplement intake from 12,646 participants in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program. Alarmingly, the findings revealed that approximately 25% of participants either rarely or never consumed fish during pregnancy, with a mere 16% taking omega-3 supplements.
Contrary to expectations, supplement usage was less prevalent among women with lower fish consumption, exacerbating their risk of omega-3 deficiency. Older participants with higher income and education levels were more likely to consume fish, mirroring patterns seen with supplement usage. However, fish consumption was more common among participants identifying as racial/ethnic minorities and those using tobacco and nicotine products.
Dr. Oken, a lead researcher on the study, emphasized the importance of public health guidance and clinical support to address these trends. “Current evidence underscores the benefits of maternal consumption of low-mercury fish or omega-3 supplements during pregnancy,” says Dr. Oken. “Our study highlights the urgent need for updated public health advice and resources to promote the consumption of low-mercury fish and omega-3 supplements among pregnant women.”
The study underscores the critical role of healthcare providers and public health initiatives in educating and supporting pregnant women to ensure adequate omega-3 intake, ultimately safeguarding maternal and fetal health.
