Is it safe to take omega-3 supplements before getting pregnant?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids for the health and growth of all of us. Although they are important, the body cannot produce them on its own, which is the cause of a serious deficiency in the amount of Omega-3 in the body. Women who are preparing for pregnancy must supplement with Omega-3 for the healthy development of the baby and improve the mother's mental health.

Omega-3s are a family of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Like some vitamins and minerals, they are essential for health and growth. However, the body cannot produce them on its own, so we must consume Omega-3 through diet or supplements. Omega-3s are often severely deficient in the food supply.
Research indicates that the two most beneficial omega-3s are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Although EPA and DHA naturally occur together and work together in the body, each fatty acid has distinct benefits.
Documented health benefits of EPA and DHA include support for healthy heart, brain and cognitive function, joint mobility, healthy eye, skin and hair health, and immune response healthy translation.
During pregnancy and lactation, the benefits of omega-3 EPA and DHA include supporting the healthy development of the unborn baby's brain, eyes and nervous system, and a healthy pregnancy weight and length. develop a healthy immune system.

Adequate intake of Omega 3 fatty acids is essential to maintain a balanced production of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins help regulate many important physiological functions including blood pressure, blood clotting, neurotransmitters, inflammatory responses, allergies, kidney and digestive tract function, and the production of other hormones.
Depending on the type and amount of fatty acids we consume, certain types of prostaglandins may be produced in large quantities, while others may not be produced at all. An imbalance of prostaglandins can have negative health consequences. The role of omega-3s in the production of prostaglandins has many health benefits, including promoting heart health, cognitive function, and a healthy immune response.

3.1 Getting pregnant In fact, if you don't eat fatty fish like: Salmon or sardines at least once or twice a week, it's a good idea to take a daily omega-3 supplement. because some fish are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA and EPA), which are important for your baby's brain and eye development. Cold water fish also known as fatty fish contain the highest amount of omega-3.
The body will store omega-3 for several weeks, so getting enough and regular omega-3 will ensure the body has enough omega-3 during pregnancy.
Additionally, you can find omega-3 supplements in liquid, soft chew, gel, and some flavors to avoid fishy odors.
3.2 During Pregnancy During pregnancy, omega-3s are important components of the fetal brain, eyes, and nervous system. After a baby is born, omega-3s support brain development and immune function, and support a healthy and good postpartum mood for the mother.
Additional note during pregnancy you should not take any supplements containing vitamin A, also known as retinol including cod liver oil, high dose multivitamin supplements or any supplement containing vitamin A (retinol). You should also avoid eating liver and liver products, such as liver pate or liver sausage, which can contain a lot of vitamin A. Too much vitamin A can harm an unborn baby.

Omega-3 DHA is generally known to be the most important omega-3 for pregnancy because it is an important building block of the brain, retina, and nervous system. An increasing number of studies in both infants and animals are showing a correlation between omega-3 intake, especially DHA, with cognitive and visual function as well as overall brain development.
In humans, the brain develops the fastest and most complex during the last three months of pregnancy and the first two years after birth. Furthermore, studies show that infants who receive DHA supplements during pregnancy have healthier immune function.
Omega-3 supplements are not only beneficial for the baby, but also for the mother's health. Omega-3 EPA and DHA support healthy labor and delivery outcomes, and have also been shown to support a healthy mood. Studies have shown that EPA and DHA help support mood and health in the postpartum period.

The best sources of EPA and DHA are cold water fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, anchovies, and herring. Fish oil or algae oil are reliable sources of EPA and DHA, and they are important for health.
Look for fish oil products from reputable manufacturers. The only objective evidence of fish oil quality and purity is the results of third-party testing that verify compliance with stringent standards, so look for a manufacturer that provides free results. this test result.
In addition to supplementing with omega-3 to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, both husband and wife should have their reproductive health checked 3-5 months before becoming pregnant.

The wife should:
Get vaccinated before pregnancy (especially against rubella because rubella in pregnancy is extremely dangerous ) Genetic testing to screen for genetic diseases before pregnancy Check for gynecological infections Avoid affecting the health of the mother and the fetus Especially women over 35 years old who want to get pregnant (especially if they have never been pregnant) will have to have a very detailed health check because pregnancy at this age is common. problems: Ovarian failure, premature birth, higher risk of birth defects, placenta previa, preeclampsia. The husband should:
Check reproductive health, detect diseases of testicular atrophy, physiological weakness, weak sperm... Sexually transmitted diseases, especially those that cannot be cured, are extremely dangerous. Vinmec currently has many comprehensive health care programs for couples, pregnant mothers and their unborn babies, including basic pre-marital examination packages, advanced pre-marital examination packages, and maternity packages. . Vinmec has a team of experienced doctors in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology, IVF, stem cells, gene technology, capable of synchronously and comprehensively deploying the most advanced assisted reproductive techniques today.
For specific information about fertility and maternity packages at Vinmec, please contact the hospitals and clinics of Vinmec health system nationwide.

References: babycenter.com, americanpregnancy.org