Benefits of Cod Liver Oil during Pregnancy

"Enjoy a Healthy Pregnancy with Fish Oils!"

Is it safe to use cod liver oil during pregnancy?

Cod liver oil is natural source of omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin A and Vitamin D.

While this healthy marine oil may help supplement your diet, can you get side effects from taking too much?

One of the biggest concerns for pregnant mothers is excessive exposure to certain vitamins, minerals or nutrients that may jeopardize your baby's health.

The following information is based on the latest research cod liver oil, infant health and pregnancy.

Cod Liver Oil and Vitamin A Exposure

Some researchers suggest pregnant women, and women who may become pregnant, avoid high levels of vitamin A for risk of births defects.

Since cod liver oil is a natural source of vitamin A, is it possible to get too much vitamin A?

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development did a study on safe vitamin A levels in pregnant women and found moderate doses of vitamin A during pregnancy don't pose a risk for birth defects.

So what is considered a moderate dose of vitamin A?

The above study says the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin A is 2,670 IU. However, research shows some women can take up to 8000-10,000 IU (triple the RDI) without adverse affects.

One (1) teaspoon of cod liver oil can provide up to 1200 IU of vitamin A (depending on the brand); this is about 50% of the daily RDI.

Based on these values, one (1) teaspoon a day of cod liver oil would keep you well within the limit for safe consumption of vitamin A for optimal health.

Cod Liver Oil may Reduce Risk for Childhood Diabetes

Did you know that cod liver oil may reduce your child's risk for getting diabetes later in life?

The World Health Organization estimates over 177 million people have diabetes. Research shows almost 80% of diabetics may die of heart disease or stroke. It can also cause kidney failure, blindness and amputations.

A recent study showed pregnant mothers supplementing their diets with cod liver oil (or vitamin D supplements) had a lower risk for their child to develop diabetes.

Use of these supplements during the first year of life also reduced a child's risk for getting diabetes.

Another study involving over 400 pregnant mothers showed that taking cod liver oil during pregnancy may lead to giving birth to heavier babies. Doctors believe higher birth weights are linked to lower risk of diseases later in life.

Cod Liver Oil may Boost Intelligence in Babies

Here's a smart way to boost your baby's brain power with this healthy oil.

Researchers had healthy pregnant women take 10 ml. of cod liver oil at Week 18 of their pregnancies. They continued taking the healthy oil until 3 months after giving birth.

When their babies turned 4 years old, researchers tested the infants' problem-solving skills and mental processing abilities.

It turns out the babies getting cod liver oil achieved higher overall scores than babies whose mothers didn't take cod liver oil.

Here's more proof how fish oils can help you during pregnancy.

Editorial Comments on Cod Liver Oil and Pregnancy:

Cod Liver Oil may enhance Pregnancy

Cod liver oil is a great source of omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin A & D. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to provide many health benefits during pregnancy.

Should you take cod liver oil during pregnancy? The biggest concern would be getting too much vitamin A and D. You can get these levels checked with your physician with a blood test.

A study from Iceland showed taking high amounts of cod liver oil during early pregnancy may increase your risk for hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Unfortunately, this study didn't indicate how much was considered too much.

Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to have positive effects on fetal growth, vision, neurological effects and reduced risk for allergies and asthma.

Following the recommended daily allowances is the best way to ensure a healthy lifestyle. These studies show some of the health benefits of taking cod liver oil during pregnancy. Consult your doctor/obstetrician before taking cod liver oil to ensure you have a healthy and happy pregnancy.

Research References:

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