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Preterm birth: every day counts
New global clinical practice guidelines for omega-3s to reduce preterm birth risk.
Every year, an estimated 15 million babies are born preterm, and rates are rising in many countries. Although premature births remain a problem in the developed world, it is especially burdensome in low and middle income countries, with World Health Organization (WHO) figures demonstrating that 1 in 10 babies are born preterm, globally. Preterm birth is a leading cause of death among infants, and often comes with significant and enduring health issues for survivors – as well as emotional distress for mothers. It is well established that omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA, have positive benefits on both maternal health and fetal development. Furthermore, strong evidence demonstrates that DHA supplementation substantially reduces the risk of preterm birth. However, supplementation during pregnancy remains low, despite recommendations by leading experts.
Expert recommendation
Key conclusions from the expert panel
The first global expert clinical practice guidelines for omega-3 fatty acids, like DHA, to reduce preterm birth were recently published. The expert panel included 24 experts in obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics, and nutrition from all over the globe. The guideline was funded and supported by the Child Health Foundation, was published on behalf of six scientific-medical organizations, and was recently endorsed by the European Board & College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
- All women of childbearing age should consume at least 250 mg of DHA+EPA per day (this intake can be met with DHA alone).
- Pregnant women should consume at least 350-450 mg of DHA+EPA per day, with at least 100-200 mg coming from DHA specifically (as above, all of this intake can come from DHA alone).
- Pregnant women with low DHA intake and/or blood status at the beginning of pregnancy should consume 600-1000 mg DHA+EPA (or DHA) daily.
- Intakes of up to 1000 mg DHA+EPA (or DHA) per day do not raise safety concerns in pregnant women.
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Planning pregnancy
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Experts recommend that all women of childbearing age, especially those trying to get pregnant, consume at least 250mg DHA+EPA (or DHA alone) per day.
Carrying
During pregnancy, women need additional DHA to prevent preterm birth and support baby's developing brain
The experts recommend that all pregnant women consume an additional intake of at least 100-200mg/day DHA, for a total daily intake of 350-450mg DHA+EPA.
High risk pregnancy
Women with low DHA status or intake in early pregnancy have an increased risk of preterm and early preterm
The experts recommend that women with low DHA intakes consume at least 600-1000mg DHA (or DHA + EPA) per day to reduce their risk of preterm birth.
From conception to birth: The importance of maternal nutrition
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Building the foundations for a healthy pregnancy: The role of omega-3s
Giving soon-to-be moms peace of mind is our purpose. And following the latest scientific expert recommendations, we elevate the role of DHA for a healthy pregnancy with our plant-based omega-3s offering.
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