Omega-3 fish oils should be on the must-have supplement list for both moms and babies. Here’s why.
I didn’t take omega-3 fish oils during my first pregnancy nine years ago.
In fact, I don’t even remember knowing about these powerhouses of health or the benefits of fish oils for moms and babies until a couple years later, during my second pregnancy.
But you better believe I am diligently taking omega-3 fish oils during my 4th pregnancy! Now, I see them as just as important as my prenatal vitamin!
But just why is fish oil so important to moms and babies?
What are omega-3 fish oils?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats, those found in fish being the most critical (source).
According to American Pregnancy Association, women should take omega-3 supplements before, during, and after pregnancy to ensure optimal health for mom and baby (source).
After I began taking omega-3 fish oils during my second pregnancy, my entire family added this supplement to our regular health and wellness regimen.
Why are Omega-3 Fish Oils So Important?
1. Women in the U.S. only get 40% of the omega-3s they need daily.
Supplementation is important because most of us are not getting the omega-3s we need on our own (source).
While pregnant, the omega-3s we do have are going to supply our babies with vital nutrients. Omega-3 supplementation is a must if both mom and baby are to maintain optimal health.
In fact, the American Dietetic Association recommend pregnant and breastfeeding women consume at least 500 mg of omega-3s daily (source).
2. Omega-3 fish oils support brain, eye, immune, and nervous system health in babies.
While it is important for expectant mothers to take adequate amounts of omega-3s throughout pregnancy, it is vital during the third trimester, when the baby’s brain is rapidly developing before delivery (source).
While the baby’s brain, eye, immune, and nervous system health is being built by the mother’s omega-3 stores, the mother can suffer from depletion that can lead to other health issues postpartum if she is not getting adequate amounts through supplementation (source).
3. Omega-3 fish oils can foster positive mood in postpartum women.
I experienced postpartum depression after the birth of my second child, and one of the first things my chiropractor asked me during this time was: “Are you still taking your omega-3 fish oil supplements?”
Guess what? I had stopped taking them after the pregnancy. I later discovered that I needed to take omega-3 fish oil supplements just as much while breastfeeding!
Once I began taking them again, my mood improved significantly.
Now, I don’t foresee ever going without omega-3 fish oils–whether I am breastfeeding, pregnant, or just being a mom!
For help with preparing for a natural childbirth (including learning more about pregnancy nutrition), check out the #1 bestselling online childbirth course, Mama Natural Birth Course. It will empower you to have the natural birth you want…and you can watch the course in the comfort of your own home!
Getting your kids to take Omega-3 fish oils
If you aren’t familiar with omega-3 fish oils, you might perceive that it would be difficult to get your kids to take these supplements. Wrong!
Our girls have been taking omega-3 fish oil supplements since they were babies, and when I give them a liquid version, they now fight over which child gets to lick the spoon!
My husband and I laugh at the fact that, at the end of the day, the girls will remind us if we have not given them their fish oil.
“Mom! Can I have some fish oil!” they will squeal in delight.
I am not kidding! We know our friends new to healthy living must think this is a bit crazy, but we love that our girls are gleaning the benefits of this vital nutritional supplement so early in life.
One of our favorite brands of omega-3 fish oils is Nordic Naturals.
Nordic Naturals is recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. I get it from Vitacost (click here to get $5 off your first order via my referral code!), but you can also find them at many local health food stores or on Amazon.
Want to try Nordic Naturals for yourself? Order some today, and use the promo code CAFEMOM to save 15%! Click here to check out their full product line!
Do you take an omega-3 fish oil supplement? Did you know how beneficial omega-3 fish oils are to moms and babies?
Thank you, Nordic Naturals, for underwriting this conversation.
Stacy
This is great info! I wish I’d known this when I was pregnant 🙂
I love Nordic Naturals. I’ve used their supplements for myself and the kids and think they are excellent.
Amy Hagerup
Congratulations on your big news! I just got your email. I’m so happy for you. God is in control. That is hilarious that you just gave away some baby things. LOL. Love to you and yours.
Cassandra Williams
Erin, you were missed! Congratulations on your baby as well. Omega 3’s are what I try to take weekly. Daily, can’t seem to remember or I run out! As a mom of 5 at 42 and not wanting anymore, I agree omega 3 is essential. .awesome your girls still take it!!
Beth Ricci
It’s crazy that pregnant women only get 40% of the omega 3’s that they should! Yikes! So glad you’re taking your fish oil while growing your newest little one. xoxoxo
Andrea
I love their flavored cod liver oil. I never thought I’d be able to say I love cod liver oil! Ha!
Ana Willis @ TheyCallMeBlessed.org
I’m so excited for you Erin!! My kids are the same age as yours and sometimes I long for baby #4 too but so far nothing happened. But with blogging and homeschooling I wonder if I could handle it well especially at age 42!
I also just gave away all our baby stuff with the exemption of one stroller still in the garage – my favorite one! I’m still attached to it. 🙂
I’m so glad you are taking omega 3 oils! It is crucial for the brain development. I’ve learned so much about the benefits of it when I did my Dr. Sears health coach certification! Keep eating healthy, resting and enjoying it!!
Congratulations! God is so good!
Erin
Thanks SO much, Ana! I’ve had several friends have little tagalong babies in their 40s! I LOVE Dr. Sears! I didn’t realize he had a coaching program! How awesome! Thank you again! God IS so good!!
Aimee
This is one of the first supplements my doctor strongly urged me to take when I began having health problems over this past spring. Great post!
Erin
I can’t believe I spent my first years of motherhood without it. It wasn’t until I was experiencing PPD with my 2nd that my chiropractor said: “So, are you on fish oil?” TOTAL game changer! Thanks for sharing, Aimee!
Keelie Reason
Very Exciting For you. 🙂 I’m so glad you know what you are having.
Julie
Could you please tell me what kind you order from that website? There are quite a few kinds. I have a 7 month old and a 7 year old and would also like to try them for myself. Thanks! ?