Passion for omega: Role of omega‑3 PUFAs during pregnancy for health of offspring

Abstract

The basis of the normal course of pregnancy is optimal nutrition as one of the main elements of a healthy lifestyle. Numerous studies have established that long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a variety of biological activities: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antiallergic, antithrombotic, antisclerotic, etc. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids are necessary for the normal functioning of the body during pregnancy and intrauterine development of the child. Deficiency of omega 3 PUFAs leads to a disruption in the normal development and physiological formation of the structures of the brain, visual analyzer and the immune system of the fetus. The use of omega 3 PUFAs during pregnancy has a positive effect both on the neuropsychic state of the woman, preventing depression, and on the psychomotor development of the child, improving cognitive functions. It is important to ensure adequate intake of these compounds from food or dietary supplements to ensure the normal course and outcome of pregnancy.