Omega-3 in fish helps babies brains develop in the womb
24 January 2006
by Carina
Lee
|
Limiting fish consumption during pregnancy may cause malfunctions during critical development stages of growth and development of babies, according to a recent study. Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is naturally produced by oily fish. Researchers from the University of Bristol undertook several studies that produced the opposite result as recommended by the current dietary guidelines offered by the United States. Lead researcher of the project at the US National Institute of Health, Dr. Joe Hibbeln explains, "We have found that when women comply with the advisory, the outcome is exactly the opposite to what was intended." The United States' guidelines suggest that pregnant women consume an overall amount of about 340g of seafood per week. However, by depriving a growing baby of essential fatty acids such as omega-3, brain development could be hindered as a result. A project known as 'The Children of the 90s' tested the IQ (intelligence quotient) as well as brain function including behaviour and fine motor skills of a sample of children. It was observed that children whose mothers had no fish in their diet scored lower in all three areas. |
|
Related Links
University of Bristol original press release
Nature
& Science News
ClearlyExplained.com