The most IMPORTANT nutrient DHA for your baby from conception to the first year of life

Hello, wonderful parents-to-be!

Today, let's dive into a crucial aspect of your baby's development that often doesn't get the attention it deserves – Omega-3 fatty acids. As a pediatric dietitian, I'm here to shed light on the significance of incorporating these essential nutrients into your diet from the moment you conceive and throughout your baby's first year.

Congratulations on your pregnancy!!🎊🎊 😁 Heard of the advice our parents gave badam is good for your brain?

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Why Omega-3 from the Start?

You might be surprised to learn that our bodies can't produce Omega-3 fatty acids; we must obtain them from our diet or supplements. These vital nutrients play a pivotal role in the development of your baby's brain and retina. Starting from as early as 24-30 weeks of pregnancy and continuing up to one year of age, Omega-3s can significantly impact your child's overall health and well-being.

A Little Omega-3 Goes a Long Way!

During pregnancy, Omega-3 fatty acids can:

1. Contribute to the development of your baby's brain and retina.

2. Increase the length of your pregnancy, potentially preventing preterm birth.

3. Alleviate depression during and post-pregnancy.

4. Reduce the risk of food allergies and IgE-related eczema.

5. Promote a healthy weight for your baby at birth.

Meeting the recommended daily intake of 650 mg of Omega-3, with 300 mg as DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), is essential for maximizing these benefits.

Sources of Omega-3 or DHA for your baby: More Than Just Fish!

For vegetarians, sources rich in ALA Omega-3 fatty acids include pulses, nuts, seeds, spinach, hemp seeds, and more. Non-vegetarian options include seafood like sardines, mackerel, salmon, and even DHA-enriched eggs.

Making Smart Choices with Seafood: Balancing Mercury Concerns

The concern over mercury content in fish has led many pregnant women to reduce their fish intake. However, the FDA assures that consuming 2 servings or 340 g of fish per week is safe and won't pass harmful levels to your baby. Opt for smaller fish like salmon, pollock, shrimp, catfish, and sardines to minimize mercury exposure.

Remember, mercury tends to accumulate in larger fish, such as swordfish and shark, which can have adverse effects on your baby's developing nervous system.

Supplements for a Balanced Diet

Due to food restrictions during pregnancy, meeting the recommended Omega-3 intake can be challenging. In such cases, supplements like fish oil, flaxseed oil, or algae-derived DHA can help bridge the gap. By 30 weeks, supplements are prescribed by most doctors

Omega-3 Rich Foods: A Quick Guide

Here's a handy list of Omega-3-rich foods and their respective amounts:

Requirements for Pregnant women:

Requirements for infants: 0 to 12 months: 0.5 grams/day.

Requirements for kids

1 to 3 years: 0.7 grams/day.

4 to 8 years: 0.9 grams/day.

Vegetarian sources

Pulses

Black gram dal and whole (packet)- 1 tbsp - used in dosa, vada

Soya bean (1/2 cup) 670 mg Sabzi and curry

Nuts

Walnut (in 1 whole nut/ two halves) 267 mg

Seeds

Flax seed (1tbsp/ 10.3 g) 2350 mg

Flax seed oil (1 tablespoon/13.6 grams) 7260 mg

Chia seeds (10.3 g) 1861 mg

Trace vegetarian sources

Spinach

Hemp seeds

Non-vegetarian sources

Seafood mercury content

Sardines (100 g)- 1480 mg

Makeral (100 g)- 5134 mg

Salmon (100 g)- 2260 mg

Cod liver oil (1 tbsp)- 2682 mg

Anchovies (100 g)- 2113 mg

Other non-vegetarian sources

DHA-enriched eggs- 150mg prolonged pregnancy preventing preterm birth

Remember, a balanced diet is the key to a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you're meeting your specific nutritional needs.

So, dear parents, let's embark on this exciting journey together, armed with the knowledge of Omega-3s and their incredible benefits for your little one's growth and development. Happy eating for two!