Omega-3 fatty acids may help combat depression in pregnant women, both during  pregnancy and post partum.

Depression is a common problem during pregnancy, and studies have associated the condition with abnormally low levels of omega-3 fatty acids.  While studies have shown that Omega-3s do indeed prevent depression during pregnancy, they also help to prevent preterm labor and premature birth.  Omega-3 fats also prevent preeclampsia.

DHA is a component of Omega-3 fat that comes from the food you eat, primarily from fatty fish and organ meat.  During pregnancy the daily requirements of DHA increase substantially.  Regular consumption of fish may help to provide the beneficial fats you and your growing baby need, however, you must take special care in fish consumption.  The FDA and EPA have both issued health advisories warning against the consumption of certain fish and shell fish by young children and  women who are pregnant or nursing.  This is because many fish contain high levels of mercury, which is harmful to you and your baby.

Your baby requires large amounts of Omega-3 fats, DHA, and choline for brain development. The safest way to get extra DHA and Omega-3s into your diet is through a supplement.

Omega-3 fats, and their components, such as DHA, are crucial for your baby’s brain development, and studies show that supplementation of these fats during pregnancy could make your child smarter.  Children who’s mothers supplemented with Omega-3s during pregnancy have been found to have better performance for problem solving, better visual and auditory acuity, and improved cognitive functions, with effects measurable up to the age of four.

We recommend supplementation with Krill Oil, because it also contains the important nutrient, choline, which super-charges the brain activity in utero, aiding in fetal brain development, learning and memory.

We recommend Antarctic Pure Krill Oil from Mercola.com not only for its superior quality, but because it is an excellent value.