Fish Oil And Pregnancy

Fish oil and pregnancy should be approached with caution due to the many factors that may put you or your unborn baby at risk if you don't have all the facts. Many foods and vitamin that we take for granted as adults can negatively impact on a developing unborn baby.

There are two distinct differences in fish oil vitamin supplements that are important for pregnant women to know about. These differences are subtle but, if they are ignored, can have severe consequences.

As we eat we get our vitamin supply from several sources. If we are not vegetarians, one of the sources of our nutrients is meat. Vitamin A is a fat soluable vitamin that is stored in the liver and we get it by eating the organs of animals, such as liver or products derived from liver.

Fish oil supplements such as cod liver oil which is taken from the fish's liver are high in 'preformed' Vitamin A. Excessive amounts of preformed Vitamin A during pregnancy may result in birth defects and liver toxicity.

Fish oil supplements that are not taken from fish livers are considered to be not only safe, but highly recommended for the developing unborn baby. Studies show that this type of fish oil supplement supports the growing baby's immune system. Fish oil vitamin supplements also encourages brain and eye development, especially during the final stages of pregnancy.

It is important to read labels and try to stay away from foods that have been 'fortified' because the origin of the vitamins in these types of foods, while harmless to adults, may impact on the health of your unborn baby. It's not worth the risk to your baby's health, is it?

Your primary care physician or obstetrician can answer any questions you might have regarding fish oil vitamin supplements that will be safe for you to use during your pregnancy.

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