The beautiful and transformative journey called pregnancy is characterized by a wide range of psychological and physiological changes, which resonates with all mothers worldwide.
Expectant mothers, consequently, would bear the enormous responsibility of providing the best nutrition for the developing fetus.
Health industry observers, however, are pretty skeptical about the re-emergence of cod liver oil (CLO), dubbed as a prenatal supplement to provide nutritional support for expectant moms.
Conversely, the supplement is recognized by reputable organizations such as the American Pregnancy Association (APA), prominent health groups in the United Kingdom, and other authoritative health bodies.
This article aims to thoroughly examine the rationale and methodologies underlying the potential inclusion of CLO into the dietary regimen of pregnant women.
Lei Kalina Stories shares significant information about cod liver oil's support for maternal and fetal health during the complex stages of pregnancy by thoroughly reviewing the scientific evidence and expert opinions.
1. Cod Liver Oil As The Nutritional Powerhouse
Cod liver oil, derived from the livers of codfish, is renowned for its rich nutritional profile. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin A, it serves as a supplement to support maternal health and fetal development.
The American Pregnancy Association (APA) acknowledges the importance of these nutrients during pregnancy, stating that omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for developing the baby's brain and eyes. At the same time, vitamin D is essential for bone health.
"Scientific research is constantly expanding our knowledge of nutritional needs in pregnancy. Among the most recent developments in this field is the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in the development of a healthy baby and the mother's health," the association said in its published article.
On its website, the association further added that omega-3s produce beneficial prostaglandins that have numerous health benefits, "including the prevention of heart disease, improving cognitive function, and the regulation of inflammation."
"High doses of omega-3s have been used to treat and prevent mood disorders, and new studies are identifying their potential benefits for many conditions, including cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and other autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis," the APA further informed.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Nourishing the Brain and Beyond
Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a pivotal role in fetal brain development.
National Institutes of Health (NIH), based on a report by Boston-based obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. James Greenberg, emphasized the significance of these essential fatty acids, sharing that DHA, a significant structural fat in the brain and eyes, accounts for "up to 97% of the omega-3 fats in the brain and up to 93% of the omega-3 fats in the retina of the eye."
Ensuring an adequate supply of omega-3s through supportive nutritional supplements can contribute to the baby's cognitive development.
For its part, The Cureus Journal of Medical Science pointed out the correlation of fetal development with the benefits of omega-3s. DHA is a significant structural fat in the brain and eyes, accounting for up to 97% of the omega-3 fats in the brain and up to 93% of the omega-3 fats in the eye's retina.
The medical science journal underscored that omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties.
These may also help alleviate common discomforts experienced during pregnancy, such as joint pain and swelling. This natural anti-inflammatory effect can benefit expectant mothers, providing a holistic well-being approach.
3. Vitamin D: Building Strong Bones
Cod liver oil is a reliable source of vitamin D, a crucial nutrient for bone health. APA highlighted the role of vitamin D in pregnancy, pointing out that this vitamin is essential for the baby's bones and teeth development and critical in contributing to the baby's overall immune system health.
Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin D is especially vital for expectant mothers, as it contributes to the skeletal development of the fetus and helps prevent complications such as rickets and other bone deficiency diseases.
Recent studies by the National Institute of Health (NIH) informed that various biomarkers influence early dental development by inhibiting or preventing a cascade of signalling pathways. The earliest histologic sign of tooth formation is the thickening of the oral epithelium on day 11 of gestation.
Meanwhile, the permanent dentition forms in mid-pregnancy, around the 20th week of gestation, but matrix secretion does not begin until birth. Micronutrient deficiency at these two critical time points can directly affect matrix secretion in the hard tissues of the teeth, disrupting the continuation of dental formation and mineralization.
Calcium and phosphorus are the most essential minerals that make up the hydroxyapatite crystals in enamel. Consequently, according to NIH research, hypocalcemia—calcium deficiency in the bloodstream—and hypophosphatemia—low levels of phosphate in the blood—can cause impaired mineralization and delayed tooth eruption.
4. Vitamin A: Support For Vision and Immune Health
Cod liver oil is rich in vitamin A, another essential nutrient for the mother and the developing baby. Vitamin A is crucial in vision development and is vital for maintaining a robust immune system.
Health industry insiders are underscoring the importance of vitamin A during pregnancy, pointing out that vitamin A is critical for developing the baby's heart, lungs, and kidneys.
NIH pointed out that Vitamin A, an essential micronutrient for pregnant women and their fetuses, is required for morphological and functional development and ocular integrity. It also has systemic effects on several fetal organs and the fetal skeleton.
Incorporating cod liver oil into the maternal diet ensures a natural and wholesome source of this crucial nutrient.
Still, a stern warning from health industry experts on vitamin A deficiency (VAD) points out that this is the primary cause of preventable blindness worldwide.
"VAD in pregnant women is a public health issue in most developing countries. In contrast, in some developed countries, excessive vitamin A intake during pregnancy can be a concern since, when in excess, this micronutrient may exert teratogenic effects in the first 60 days following conception," NIH informed from its recent studies.
The medical study further added that routine prenatal vitamin A supplementation is not recommended to prevent maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. However, in areas wherein VAD is a significant public health concern, vitamin A supplementation is recommended to avoid night blindness.
Beyond APA pronouncements, other health organizations and industry experts are endorsing adequate intake of cod liver oil as a supplement for pregnant women.
The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that "omega-3 fatty acids are long-chain polyunsaturated essential fatty acids that are required" for optimal health and development. These are essential fatty acids because the body cannot produce them independently and must obtain them through diet, which is especially beneficial to pregnant and lactating women.
From The Hospital Research Foundation Group based in South Australia, medical experts are recommending adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids to prevent premature births.
According to the study, pioneering research from South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) Executive Director and Professor Maria Makrides at SAHMRI Women and Kids established the findings that increasing dosage levels of omega-3 long-chain fatty acids for expectant mothers "has been found to reduce their risk of premature births by 77 per cent."
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RCOG), for its part, also underscores the importance of vitamin supplements during pregnancy, especially vitamin D.
"All pregnant women are advised to take a daily dose of 10 micrograms (µg) of vitamin D when pregnant and breastfeeding. This is because it is common in the UK for people to have low levels of vitamin D. Taking supplements can improve your baby's growth during their first year of life and reduce their risk of developing rickets," RCOG said.
Conclusion
Optimal nutrition is a cornerstone of the well-being of expectant mothers and developing babies during the intricate pregnancy journey. Cod liver oil, celebrated for its omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin A content, stands out as a wholesome and natural supplement to support this crucial period.
Health industry experts and insiders are recommending the benefits of nutritional supplements, extending beyond conventional wisdom. By incorporating this nutritional powerhouse into the maternal diet, expectant mothers can nourish their bodies and provide a foundation for the healthy development of their precious little ones.
As with any dietary supplement, pregnant women are advised to exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before adding cod liver oil to their routine. This ensures a personalized and safe approach to maternal nutrition.
Stay tuned to my blog for new updates and articles about mommy wellness, optimal health and nutrition for male and female health enthusiasts, and extra care for one's health and well-being.
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