Omega-3s linked to infant brain development

11 Apr 2008

Intake of omega-3 during the final trimester of pregnancy boosts the cognitive and sensory development of the infant, new findings suggest.

A study published in the latest edition of the Journal of Pediatrics found that exposure to omega-3 fatty acids in the last months of pregnancy can be linked to visual acuity, cognitive and motor development in infants between six and 11 months.

Commenting on the findings, research supervisor Dr Gina Muckle said: "These results highlight the crucial importance of prenatal exposure to omega-3s in a child's development.

"A diet rich in omega-3s during pregnancy can't be expected to solve everything, but our results show that such a diet has positive effects on a child's sensory, cognitive, and motor development."

Although there are potential risks associated with eating fish during pregnancy, according to the researchers, the benefits "far outweigh" the risks.

They recommend expectant mothers eat fish with low contaminant levels and high omega-3 content such as trout, salmon, and sardines.

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