The demand for DHA in the body increases during pregnancy and a woman?s DHA levels are likely to remain low for nine to 12 months after delivery. Consequently, an adequate intake of DHA and EPA is particularly important during pregnancy and lactation stages. During this time the mother must supply all the baby?s needs for DHA and EPA. The constant drain on the mother's DHA reserves can easily lead to a deficiency and some researchers believe that it could lead to other heath issues.

There is some evidence that the insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of premature birth and an abnormally low birth weight. It should also be noted that there is emerging evidence that low levels of omega-3 acids are associated with hyper activity in children as well.*

Omega 3 fatty acids are composed of a-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA has been found to be important both to mothers and children. Research shows that a significant DHA level is vital for optimal fetal brain, retina and nervous system development.

While the FDA does not have any regulations established for a daily intake of DHA, the National Institutes of Health and the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids (NIH/ISSFAL) recommend a daily intake of 300mg for pregnant and nursing mothers. American woman have been found to have an insignificant amount of DHA in there diets. In a dietary study of 112 pregnant and nursing women, less than 2 percent met the 300mg/day requirement.