Pregnancy, Lactation and Children

Omega 3 fatty acids

Pregnancy, Lactation, Children and Adults

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. 
 
 
Read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.  These recommendations are not for cod liver oil which contains fat soluble vitamins in higher amounts which could lead to toxicity.
 
 
Recent research supports the use of DHA to promote infant development and to prevent asthma, eczema and allergies in infants.


Pregnancy
600 mg DHA daily
2000 – 3000 mg OMEGA 3 fatty acids daily (this number is different from total fish oil mg)


Lactation
600 – 1200 mg DHA daily
4000 – 5000 mg OMEGA 3 fatty acids daily (this number is different from total fish oil mg)


Children
0 – 6 months – DHA comes from breastmilk or formula
6 – 12 months – 100 -200 mg DHA daily
12 – 24 months – 200 – 300 mg DHA daily
2 – 5 years – 300 – 400 mg DHA daily
5 years and older – 400 – 600 mg DHA daily
 

Cautions
 
Individuals with diabetes or who are taking medication to thin the blood
Should be discontinued before any surgery

 
Recommended Companies

Potentially harmful contaminants such as dioxins, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are found in some species of fish. Methylmercury accumulates in fish meat more than in fish oil, and fish oil supplements appear to contain almost no mercury. Therefore, safety concerns apply to eating fish but likely not to ingesting fish oil supplements. Heavy metals are most harmful in young children and pregnant/nursing women.
 
 
Essential fatty acids, especially when derived from a marine source, must be carefully purified.  These are the names of companies that I have personally seen 3rd party testing assuring their purity from contaminants like heavy metals.  It is very important to use a good quality omega 3 fatty acids supplement.

  • Nordic Naturals
  • Genestra / Seroyal
  • Nutra Sea
  • Metagenics
  • Douglas Laboratories

Safety

Omega 3 fatty acids are considered very safe.