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Omega-3 Levels in Prenatal Supplements
Mary J Scourboutakos1, Elenee H Harper2, Michael T Kopec1
1Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia.
American Journal of Perinatology
|December 4, 2024
Summary
Commercial prenatal supplements show varied omega-3 fatty acid levels. Many products may not align with recommended intakes for pregnant women, highlighting potential nutritional gaps.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Maternal Health
- Dietary Supplements
Background:
- Most pregnant women have inadequate omega-3 fatty acid intake.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for preventing preterm birth.
- New guidelines advocate for increased omega-3 intake during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically document omega-3 levels in US and Canadian prenatal supplements.
- To compare these documented levels with recommended pregnancy intakes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Dietary Supplement Label Database (50 products) and Licensed Natural Health Products Database (18 products).
- Calculated mean omega-3 levels and the proportion of products meeting recommendations.
Main Results:
- Average omega-3 levels were 368±33 mg (US) and 404±72 mg (Canada).
- 70% (US) and 61% (Canada) of products met sufficient intake recommendations.
- 16% (US) and 28% (Canada) met insufficient intake recommendations.
Conclusions:
- Commercial prenatal supplements exhibit diverse omega-3 fatty acid content.
- Supplement levels may not consistently align with recommended intake levels for pregnant women.
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