The consumption of fish during pregnancy could slash chances of women developing post-natal depression. The omega-3 fatty acids which are found in abundance in oily fish like salmon could protect against baby blues, suggested experts. Post-natal depression affects nearly thirteen percent of new mothers. It can last more than a year in more stern cases, despite medication and counseling.
To analyze the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, researchers from University of Connecticut conducted a study that included twenty-six pregnant women, who took a fish oil capsule, containing three hundred mg of omega-3 fat DHA, five times a week from around the twenty-fourth week of pregnancy. Same number of women took a placebo pill containing corn oil.
The finding of the study showed that after birth of babies, women those who had taken the omega-3 scored better on a questionnaire intended to mark symptoms of post-natal depression. For example, they were less prone to state they suffered from anxiety or a loss of self-esteem.
According to lead researchers Dr Michelle Price Judge, DHA consumption during pregnancy, at levels that are reasonably obtained from foods, has the potential to diminish symptoms of post-natal depression. While some women may prefer the thinking of supplements, eating fish is the more nutritious alternative. But, too much oily fish in pregnancy can be bad for the development of a baby.
Therefore, it is significant that mothers-to-be maintain a balance when trying to boost their levels of omega-3. Fish that are rich in omega-3 also contain higher levels of toxic pollutants such as mercury. Oily fish, including salmon mackerel, trout and sardines should not be eaten more than twice a week
The expecting women should not take cod liver oil in the first three months of pregnancy. Omega-3 supplements can be taken throughout pregnancy, providing they do not contain Vitamin A, explained Dr Carrie Ruxton, from the Health Supplements Information Service.