During pregnancy, your body’s reserves of EPA and DHA Omega‑3 fatty acids are shared with your growing baby. In the third trimester, fatty acid levels may be altered due to metabolic and hematological changes, which can influence test values. For this reason, taking the BalanceTest in the first trimester or early in the second may provide more representative results. After giving birth, it is generally advisable to wait a few months before taking a new test to check and monitor your Omega‑3 status.

There are several important nutrients that your body needs more of when you are pregnant. Most of them are included in a varied and balanced diet. However, certain nutrients stand out in their significance during this period in life like Folic acid, iron, and Omega-3 DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids are classified as essential. This means our bodies cannot produce them on their own; instead, we must obtain them from our diet. Among all the Omega-3 fats, DHA is particularly crucial during pregnancy, because it is vital for the development of the fetal brain and eyes. Recent studies have also provided strong evidence that higher DHA blood levels during pregnancy are associated with a healthier birth weight and a reduced risk of early preterm birth.

The timing for starting Omega-3 supplements can vary and it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Here's a breakdown of potential benefits at different times:

Before pregnancy: Starting Omega-3 supplements before conception can prepare your body for the demands of pregnancy. It helps create a nutritional buffer that can be useful during and even after pregnancy. Some studies indicate that Omega-3s might enhance fertility, especially if the current levels are low.

During pregnancy: Initiating Omega-3 supplementation during pregnancy provides various benefits. DHA, in particular, plays a pivotal role in your baby's brain and eye development. Additionally, both EPA and DHA support your well-being during this period. Incorporating these supplements enhances health outcomes for both you and your growing baby.

After pregnancy: Starting Omega-3s postpartum remains beneficial, more so if you choose to breastfeed. Maternal intake of Omega-3, especially DHA, enriches breast milk, which is vital for a nursing baby's ongoing brain and eye development. Moreover, these supplements help replenish depleted bodily reserves, aiding in your postpartum recovery.

Remember! While starting early might offer cumulative benefits, there truly isn't a "wrong" time to begin supplementing your diet. Every stage in your pregnancy presents unique opportunities to thrive for both you and your growing baby.

Both EPA and DHA are Omega-3 fatty acids with unique roles during pregnancy. DHA is particularly known for its importance in the brain and eye development of the baby. EPA, while also beneficial, has traditionally been linked more to heart health and the immune system.

However, emerging research indicates that EPA plays a more critical role in pregnancy than previously thought. For instance, EPA may assist in effectively transporting DHA across the placenta to the fetus, making both EPA and DHA important for optimal nutrient delivery.

It's worth mentioning that both EPA and DHA are naturally found in fish, a commonly recommended food source for pregnant women. When dietary recommendations advocate for increased fish intake during pregnancy, it implicitly suggests that you're getting a balanced intake of both EPA and DHA. Therefore, both fatty acids are needed to fully leverage their health benefits.

Absolutely. Omega-3s aren't the only game in town when it comes to nutritional needs during pregnancy. Other key supplements often recommended include folic acid, choline, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D. Your healthcare provider can give you tailored advice on what supplements you may need.