Eating oily fish slashes the risk of premature birth for pregnant women, study finds
- Women can significantly reduce the risk of a premature birth by eating oily fish
- Those with highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids are less likely to give birth early
- Researchers analysed data involving 96,000 children in Denmark with blood samples from 376 women
Women can significantly reduce the risk of a premature birth by eating oily fish, a study has found.
For years, mothers-to-be have been warned about eating too much tuna because of concerns over mercury exposure. Now researchers have found those with the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids are far less likely to give birth early.
Women can significantly reduce the risk of a premature birth by eating oily fish, a study has found
The study suggests eating more fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, cod and haddock can benefit both the mother and baby’s health. Scientists at Harvard University say women who eat fewer than two servings of fish a week should consider taking fish oil tablets.
Researchers analysed data involving 96,000 children in Denmark. They examined blood samples from 376 women who gave birth before 34 weeks pregnancy and compared them to women who had a full-term birth. The team measured levels of long chain fatty acids DHA and EPA.
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They found those with the highest levels in their blood in the first six months of pregnancy were ten times less likely to have a premature baby. And women with the second lowest levels of the acids had a 2.7 times higher risk. Dr Sjurdur Olsen, of Harvard, said women were hearing messages encouraging them to avoid intake of fish altogether due to mercury. But he added: ‘our results support the importance of ensuring adequate intake of long chain omega-3 fatty acids in pregnancy.’
The NHS advises pregnant women to eat at least two portions of fish a week – one of which should be oily.
For years, mothers-to-be have been warned about eating too much tuna because of concerns over mercury exposure. Now researchers have found those with the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids are far less likely to give birth early (file photo)
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