When is the best time to start DHA supplementation for pregnant women?
DHA is an unsaturated fatty acid and one of the important nutrients needed by the human body, especially during pregnancy. Supplementing DHA is beneficial to the development of fetal intelligence and vision. So when is the best time to start supplementing with DHA? Let’s analyze it from several aspects.
Pre-pregnancy preparation stage
Supplementing DHA during pre-pregnancy preparation can lay a good nutritional foundation for future pregnancies. It is recommended to start supplementing three months before pregnancy. You can choose oral DHA soft capsules or multivitamin tablets containing DHA. Supplementing at this time can help adjust the DHA/AA ratio in women\’s bodies and lay the foundation for the health of the fetus after pregnancy.
First trimester (before 12 weeks of pregnancy)
The first trimester is the stage of fetal cell division and organ formation, and is also the starting point for brain development. Supplementing DHA at this time can play an important role in the establishment of the fetal nervous system and brain. DHA supplemented in early pregnancy can be quickly transported to the fetus through the placenta, providing a good nutritional environment. It is recommended that the daily intake of DHA in early pregnancy should be 200-300mg.
Second trimester (13-27 weeks of pregnancy)
The second trimester is a period of development of fetal organs and bones. It is also a period when the demands of pregnant women and fetuses gradually increase. DHA can not only promote the development of fetal intelligence and vision, but also regulate the mood of pregnant women and prevent depression during pregnancy. It is recommended that the daily dose of DHA be increased to 300-400mg in the second trimester.
Late pregnancy (after 28 weeks of pregnancy)
The third trimester is a period when fetal weight increases dramatically and organ details are perfected. It is also the period when the needs of pregnant women and fetuses are highest. DHA is also helpful in preventing premature birth and reducing postpartum depression in mothers. It is recommended to consume at least 400-500mg of DHA daily during late pregnancy.
Summary
The timing of DHA supplementation during pregnancy is crucial to the fetal intelligence and vision development. The supplement amount needs to be adjusted appropriately in different stages of pregnancy. It is recommended that pregnant women supplement under the guidance of a doctor. In addition to taking oral DHA soft capsules and multivitamin tablets containing DHA, pregnant women can also supplement DHA through dietary adjustments and super-concentrated fish oil to meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy.
