LCP is short for long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. These help our body function normally¹, and are essential in your baby’s development. Omega 3 and omega 6 are two families of LCPs that are particularly essential because these can’t be produced by the body. As such, these fatty acids can only be obtained through your diet¹.

Omega 3: Supporting Your Baby’s Heart, Brain and Vision

Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids comes with a number of health benefits. For one, it reduces the risk of developing heart disease³. This type of fatty acid also plays an important role in the development of your baby’s brain⁴, nervous system⁴ and eyes⁴, and contributes to normal cognitive development, which enables your baby to learn and think.

If you take enough omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and lactation, you can expect the following results:

·       A healthy birth weight⁴

·       Reduced risk of preterm delivery⁴

·       Reduced risk of developing eczema later in life⁵

·       Healthier, stronger bones^6,7

·       A positive effect on overall development, including verbal, motor and social skills⁷

Omega 3 is especially important during late pregnancy and the first few months after birth as it is said to reduce your risk of antenatal⁸ and postnatal depression⁹. Be sure to continue making oily fish such as salmon and mackerel a part of your diet.

Omega 6: Ensuring a Healthy Balance

Like omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids help support your heart health. Omega 6 is found in vegetable oils, and helps reduce the level of cholesterol in your blood¹. Give your baby an edge by consuming sufficient Omega 6 during pregnancy! This builds up your baby’s stores and readies it for life after birth.¹¹

Working It Into Your Pregnancy Diet

Like most mothers, you are likely getting sufficient amounts of omega-6 fatty acids. However, chances are that your body lacks omega-3 fatty acids¹⁶.

Oily fish such as salmon, sardine and mackerel are some of the richest sources of omega 3. During pregnancy, it’s recommended that you eat 2 portions a week for a healthy intake – any more than this and you might be exposed to high mercury content. For vegetarian mothers, walnuts, omega 3-enriched eggs, and flax seeds are the way to go!