NOW e-news - October 16, 2003
Fish Oil - Even More Reasons to Supplement
Allison Tannis, BSc, MSc. – Nutritionist
Recent research has enlightened us about the importance of essential fatty acids,
particularly omega-3 fatty acids, in our diets. We all know the importance of
supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids as it can help prevent heart disease, cognitive
disorders and cancer in our bodies. However, recent research has discovered that the
value of omega-3 in the diet goes even farther. The benefits of omega-3 supplementation
starts in the womb.
In the October issue of the Journal of Nutrition, scientists reported that supplementing
with fish oil during pregnancy results in a lower risk of some adult diseases in offspring.
They reported that maternal supplementation of fish oil was beneficial in maintaining
circulating glucose, insulin, cholesterol and homocysteine levels in the adult offspring. (J
Nutr. 133:3170-3174) Therefore, fish oil supplementation by mothers allows them to
help their offspring have a better chance of avoiding adult diseases, such as heart disease,
stroke and diabetes.
The three most major adult diseases include heart disease, diabetes and cancer. The
previously discussed study noted that maternal fish oil supplementation reduces the risk
of their offspring having heart disease and diabetes as adults. This leaves cancer. A recent
scientific study reported that lifelong consumption of a diet rich in n-3 PUFAs, (i.e.
omega-3 fatty acids) may protect against tumor growth and cancer. (Nutr Cancer.
2003;46(1):52-8) This shows promise that maternal fish oil supplementation may also
prevent the development of cancer as adults in their offspring.
These are not the only studies to have noted beneficial effects of maternal fish oil
supplementation in offspring. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has been associated
with improved gestation and post-partum depression. Also, Researchers from the
University of Glasgow recently reported that DHA supplementation promoted central
visual pathway development. (Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed. 2003 Sep;88(5):F38390) This is not surprising as 10-50% of the retina is DHA.
Almost 70% of an infant’s brain development occurs in the womb. As some brain cells
contain up to 40% DHA, it is important to ensure that pregnant women are
supplementing with fish oil. Salmon, tuna or a fish oil concentrate are all suitable
supplements. If food sources are your preference, then consuming fatty fish such as
salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna and anchovies are recommended.
The science suggests that maternal supplementation with fish oil decreases the likelihood
of offspring developing serious adult disease such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
Of note, these studies were conducted on rats, but show promise for the potential benefits
of maternal supplementation in humans. Encourage your customers to supplement with
high quality omega-3 fatty acids for lifelong benefits to themselves and their offspring.