Taking DHA during pregnancy keeps infants healthy, finds Indian origin scientist

Washington, August 02 (ANI): An Indian origin researcher has indicated that consuming Omega 3 fatty acids during pregnancy helps protects babies against illness during early infancy.

The randomized, placebo-controlled trial followed approximately 1,100 pregnant women and 900 infants in Mexico. The women were supplemented daily with 400 mg of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) supplements in the algal form or placebo from 18 to 22 weeks gestation through childbirth.

The researchers found those whose mothers took DHA supplements had fewer colds and shorter illnesses at one, three and six months of age.This is a large scale, robust study that underscores the importance of good nutrition during pregnancy," said Usha Ramakrishnan, PhD, associate professor, Hubert Department of Global Health at Emory's Rollins School of Public Health.

"Our findings indicate that pregnant women taking 400 mg of DHA are more likely to deliver healthier infants," added Ramakrishnan.

The study has been published in Pediatrics. (ANI)