Long‐Chain Omega‐3 Fatty Acids and Women's Mental Health in the Perinatal Period and Beyond

Kendall–Tackett, Kathleen

doi:10.1016/j.jmwh.2010.02.014

Cited by 18 publications

(15 citation statements)

References 49 publications

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“…A study correlating DHA content in breast milk with postpartum depression revealed higher levels of depressive symptoms in women with low DHA levels when compared to women with higher levels 33 . A review of research, as presented in an article in this issue, 34 supports that n‐3 fatty acids lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines 2–4 . This characteristic helps n‐3s prevent and treat depression, cardiovascular disease, and other inflammatory conditions.…”

Section: Omega‐3 and Pregnancy Outcomesmentioning

confidence: 96%

Prenatal Omega‐3 Fatty Acids: Review and Recommendations

Jordan

2010

J Midwife Womens Health

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The influence of dietary omega-3 fatty acids on health outcomes is widely recognized. The adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids docasahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in particular can increase gestation length and improve infant cognitive and visual performance. Adequate levels of omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to reduce the incidence of preterm birth in some populations. Research on prenatal omega-3 intake and other outcomes, such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, is inconclusive. Women in the United States consume low levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to omega-6 fatty acids; this dietary pattern is associated with poor health outcomes. Omega-3 fatty acids are found primarily in fish, yet many pregnant women avoid fish because of concerns about potential mercury and polychlorinated biphenyl contamination. It is important for prenatal care providers to assess women's diets for omega-3 fatty acid intake and ensure that pregnant women are consuming between 200 and 300 mg daily from safe food sources. Purified fish, algal oil supplements, and DHA-enriched eggs are alternative sources for pregnant women who do not eat fish.

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Section: Omega‐3 and Pregnancy Outcomesmentioning

confidence: 96%

Prenatal Omega‐3 Fatty Acids: Review and Recommendations

Jordan

2010

J Midwife Womens Health

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“…Jordan 55 stresses that pregnant women should consume between 200 and 300 mg of omega‐3 fatty acids daily from safe food sources, such as purified fish and algal oil supplements and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)–enriched eggs, which are alternative sources for pregnant women who do not eat fish. Kendall‐Tackett 56 reviews recent research on omega‐3s and women's mental health, where the majority of studies indicate that eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) has efficacy in treating depression, and that in moderate doses, EPA and DHA appear safe for pregnant and postpartum women. Kaludjerovic and Vieth 57 illustrate that inadequate vitamin D nutrition during perinatal development is a threat to human health and, because of the risks of exposure to sunlight, provides current recommendations for vitamin D supplementation 57 …”

Section: Diet and Pregnancymentioning

confidence: 99%

Essentials of Healthy Eating: A Guide

Skerrett

Willett

2010

J Midwife Womens Health

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Enough solid evidence now exists to offer women several fundamental strategies for healthy eating. They include emphasizing healthful unsaturated fats, whole grains, good protein “packages,” and fruits and vegetables; limiting consumption of trans and saturated fats, highly refined grains, and sugary beverages; and taking a multivitamin with folic acid and extra vitamin D as a nutritional safety net. A diet based on these principles is healthy through virtually all life stages, from young adulthood through planning for pregnancy, pregnancy, and on into old age.

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“…Fish is a good source of beneficial nutrients including high biological value protein, iodine, iron, selenium and vitamin E, 8 and is low in saturated fat. Evidence is emerging that low intakes of omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to the development of postnatal depression, 6,9,10 and increase the risk of pre-eclampsia 6,7,11 and gestational hypertension. 6 Optimal maternal omega-3 intake may lengthen gestation and increase birthweight.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The relationship between potential contaminant exposure from fish and nutrient intakes in Australian women by pregnancy status

Taylor

Collins

Patterson

2014

Nutrition & Dietetics

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Aim:To report fish and potential mercury intakes in women of child-bearing age and the impact on nutrient intakes. Methods: Women (n = 7486) aged 25-30 years who participated in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were categorised according to pregnancy status. Daily fish and nutrient intakes were compared with national recommendations and Nutrient Reference Values. Estimated exposure to fish contaminants was modelled from the National Residue Survey and compared with Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intakes. Results: Mean fish intake for pregnant women was 28.2 g/day, and for women who had given birth within the last 12 months, 27.8 g/day. Both were significantly lower than 'other' women, consuming 33.0 g/day (P = 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively), and well below the latest suggested intakes by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand. Pregnant women and women who had recently given birth also had significantly lower consumption of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids than 'other' women (P < 0.01 for both) and no groups met suggested dietary targets. Fish can provide up to 915% of a pregnant woman's Adequate Intake for long-chain omega-3s. Contamination of Australian fish is low, with estimated maximum weekly exposure to mercury below the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake. Conclusions: Limiting fish intake during pregnancy to minimise exposure to mercury may compromise nutritional adequacy and increase the risk of inadequate intakes of nutrients essential for maternal health and fetal growth and development. Public health recommendations need to balance the risks and benefits of fish consumption within specific countries.

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Long‐Chain Omega‐3 Fatty Acids and Women's Mental Health in the Perinatal Period and Beyond

Cited by 18 publications

References 49 publications

Prenatal Omega‐3 Fatty Acids: Review and Recommendations

Prenatal Omega‐3 Fatty Acids: Review and Recommendations

Essentials of Healthy Eating: A Guide

The relationship between potential contaminant exposure from fish and nutrient intakes in Australian women by pregnancy status

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