Dietary Intakes of EPA and DHA Omega‐3 Fatty Acids among U.S. Pregnant Women

Abstract

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two important omega‐3 fatty acids that have been reported to contribute to multiple beneficial effects on fetal development and maternal health. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA, 2015–2020), it is recommended to consume approximately 8 ounces of a variety of seafood per week (~250mg EPA and DHA per day) for the general population; while pregnant and lactating women are recommended to consume at least 8 and up to 12 ounces in order to obtain nutrients (specifically DHA) for improved infant health. According to a recent study, EPA and DHA consumptions among the general population in the U.S. are low (23mg and 63mg per day, respectively). The consumption among pregnant women is limited. The present study was conducted to evaluate EPA and DHA intakes among pregnant women using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles 2001–2006. The variable Pregnancy Status at Exam (RIDEXPREG) of Demographics data and the variable Pregnancy Test (URXPREG) of Laboratory data were used to determine pregnancy status. Total Nutrient Intake data that were collected at the NHANES Mobile Examination Center (MEC) were used to determine the intake of EPA and DHA omega‐3 fatty acids. 805 subjects were included; 19.3% were Mexican American, 21.1% were non‐Hispanic Black, and 59.6% were non‐Hispanic White. Preliminary results showed that the mean intakes of EPA and DHA from foods alone were 30 and 59 mg per day, respectively. These results suggested that many pregnant women consume less EPA and DHA from foods than the DGA recommendation. Increasing seafood consumption or considering EPA and DHA supplementation during this very important life stage may be an effective compliment if food intakes cannot be met.