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Health • 18 October 2022 • 3 min

The benefits of fish oil for pregnant women (and beyond)

By Zinzino

Pregnancy is a special time for women, as the body prepares to grow and deliver a baby. That is why the nutrient needs of new mothers change, too. There are various vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy, including the adequate consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids. So, if you’re wondering if you can take fish oil while pregnant, the answer is yes. 

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPs), known as the building blocks of fats, help the body function normally. LCPs are important for both mothers and babies. Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in brain development1, as well as the nervous system2 and vision3.

In terms of how much Omega-3 to consume while pregnant, dietitians advise two to three portions of sea fatty fish per week (such as mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon). This is to ensure a minimum amount of at least 450 mg marine Omega-3s per day (of which at least 200 mg should be in the form of DHA). The recommended minimum amount varies worldwide and some countries have higher minimum limits, for example 900 mg of marine Omega-3s (of which 800 mg in DHA fat) for pregnant women in Australia.

For pregnant women who do not regularly consume fish, the use of supplements with marine Omega‐3 fatty acids is recommended. For vegetarians and vegans, there are other sources of marine Omega-3s, such as seaweed and algae oil.

Omega-3 supplement regimen, prenatal and postnatal

A pure, high-quality Omega-3 fish oil is good for the pregnant woman’s body and in the early stages of an infant’s life. Because these essential fatty acids aren’t synthesized by the body, supplementation is necessary.

A prenatal Omega-3 recommendation is to allow at least six months prior to conception to build up this important essential fat*. It’s equally as important after delivery, and during breastfeeding.

BalanceOil+ is an Omega-3 fatty acids supplement, high in olive polyphenols and vitamin D3. It safely adjusts and maintains EPA + DHA levels and the Omega-6:3 ratio in the body, while protecting cells from oxidation. A premium blend of oils derived from wild-caught small fish and pre-harvest extra virgin olive oil, BalanceOil+ contributes to normal heart2, brain1 and immune function4.

This is a great source of Omega-3, without the concerns of environmental contaminants. BalanceOil+ uses a certified sustainable source of wild-caught fish and is molecularly tested for toxins to ensure freshness and safety. This purity factor is important for all people, especially pregnant mothers.

Omega-3 benefits for women & children

Two of the Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA are proven to maintain normal brain function1. For pregnant and lactating women, DHA contributes to normal brain development of the fetus and breastfed infants. EPA and DHA also contribute to the maintenance of blood triglyceride levels5, stable blood pressure6, and heart function2.

In addition, DHA supports healthy eye function3, which is extremely important for infants. BalanceOil+ is an all-natural way to leverage the wonderful benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Given that the body can’t produce polyunsaturated fatty acids, BalanceOil+ is an essential part of a new mother’s daily routine. And with how easy it is to consume (hidden in a morning smoothie or juice), BalanceOil+ is convenient for the changing dietary needs and preferences of mothers.

BalanceOil+ introduces 15+ EFSA-approved health benefits to new mothers, while also gently rebalancing the Omega-6:3 ratio. As pregnant and breastfeeding women embark on a new phase of life that’s physically and emotionally demanding, BalanceOil+ can help ensure the body is in its best state.

The Omega-3 BalanceOil+, a fish oil in a league of its own, is a morning ritual that will long outlast the pregnant, baby and toddler phases.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

1. DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood pressure

DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood pressure. The claim may be used only for food which provides a daily intake of 3 g of EPA and DHA. In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 3 g of EPA and DHA. When the claim is used on food supplements and/or fortified foods, information shall also be given to consumers not to exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5 g of EPA and DHA combined.

2. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision

DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. The claim may be used only for food which contains at least 40 mg of DHA per 100 g and per 100 kcal. In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of DHA. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake contributes to the normal visual development of infants up to 12 months of age. Information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 100 mg of DHA. When the claim is used on follow-on formula, the food shall contain at least 0.3% of the total fatty acids as DHA.

3. Vitamin D contributes to immune system

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system. The claim may be used only for food which is at least a source of vitamin D as referred to in the claim SOURCE OF vitamin D as listed in the Annex to Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

4. DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood

DHA and EPA contribute to the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels. The claim may be used only for food which provides a daily intake of 2 g of EPA and DHA. In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 2 g of EPA and DHA. When the claim is used on food supplements and/or fortified foods, infor- mation shall also be given to consumers not to exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5 g of EPA and DHA combined. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels. The claim may be used only for food which provides a daily intake of 2 g of DHA and which contains DHA in combination with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 2 g of DHA. When the claim is used on food supplements and/or fortified foods, information shall also be given to consumers not to exceed a supplemental daily intake of 5 g of EPA and DHA combined.

5. DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart

DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart. The claim may be used only for food which is at least a source of EPA and DHA as referred to in the claim SOURCE OF Omega-3 FATTY ACIDS as listed in the Annex to Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA.

6. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain

DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function. The claim may be used only for food which contains at least 40 mg of DHA per 100 g and per 100 kcal. In order to bear the claim, information shall be given to the consumer that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of DHA. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) maternal intake contributes to the normal brain development of the fetus and breastfed infants. Information shall be given to pregnant and lactating women that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 200 mg of DHA in addition to the recommended daily intake of Omega-3 fatty acids for adults, i.e. 250 mg DHA and EPA. The claim may be used only for food which provides a daily intake of at least 200 mg DHA.