Researchers have studied the importance of fish oil to pregnancy. The results are very encouraging and should be noted by every pregnant woman.

The primary benefits of fish oil for a pregnant woman or anyone else are due to the omega-3 fatty acids found in the oils. Primarily, those are eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA and docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. Alpha linolenic acid or ALA is also important, but, so far, the beneficial effects for the heart and brain have not been seen with that one. It is found in plant oils, like flaxseed and olive oil.

The only "real" food sources of DHA and EPA are fatty fishes, although supplements are now on the market, which are derived from marine algae. As an alternative for strict vegans, the algae supplements are a better choice than the flaxseed supplements. Flaxseed is easier to find and less costly, but since it provides only ALA, there is no real benefit.

Most people get enough ALA. That’s one of the reasons that pregnancy and fish oil supplements have been the subject of numerous studies.

Low blood levels of DHA are not uncommon in industrialized nations. Women that are about to give birth or have just given birth almost always have low levels. That’s not good for mother or child.

Some of the studies concerning pregnancy and fish oil attempted to determine possible unwanted side effects, such as increased bleeding or premature delivery. Researchers thought there might be a problem, because the oils are anticoagulants. They thin the blood and prevent clotting.

As it turns out, one of the benefits of fish oil for a pregnant woman is a reduced risk of premature delivery. But, even so, doctors don’t always recommend the supplement for at-risk or complicated pregnancies.

Other studies concerning pregnancy and fish oil have looked at the risk of post-partum depression. Women with adequate DHA intake are far less likely to suffer from it.

Additional research may be necessary to determine the full benefits of fish oil for a pregnant woman, but, so far, in addition to the reduced risk of premature delivery and postpartum depression, we have these for the child:

•Reduced risk of allergies in later life

•Reduced risk of asthma

•Reduced risk of Attention deficit and learning disorders

•Improved visual acuity during infancy

The amount of research concerning pregnancy and fish oil is small in comparison to the number of studies that have been done concerning other issues. Studies have focused on depression, high triglycerides, low HDL (good cholesterol), arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, immune system disorders, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, high blood pressure and other conditions.

It is not a cure-all supplement and some brands are definitely better than others. But, there are definitely benefits of fish oil for a pregnant woman, for all adults and for all children. Learn about the differences and choose your supplement carefully.

And now please visit the XtendFishOil website listed below for updated information on benefits of fish oil for a pregnant woman.