guido When you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you are quite literally eating for two: every nutrient, including omega-3, reaches your child through the placenta and later through breast milk. For the fatty acid DHA this is especially relevant: maternal intake contributes to the normal development of the brain and eyes of the foetus and the breastfed infant.
The first 1000 days
From conception until roughly the second birthday, your child’s brain cells grow at high speed. The brain is around 60% fat, and DHA is a key structural building block of its cell membranes. That construction starts in the womb, long before the first spoonful of food.
How much DHA do you need?
The authorised claim is precise: maternal DHA intake contributes to the normal development of the brain and eyes of the foetus and breastfed infant, with the beneficial effect obtained at a daily intake of 200 mg of DHA in addition to the general recommended 250 mg of DHA and EPA. In practical terms: during pregnancy and breastfeeding you want to reach a good 450 mg per day.
Why many pregnant women fall short
Oily fish is the best known source of DHA, but it is precisely during pregnancy that caution with certain fish is advised, because fish can contain heavy metals such as mercury and other contaminants. That creates a dilemma: you need more DHA while your main source is restricted.
FISH-FREE
The way out: DHA straight from algae
Fish get their DHA from algae. By choosing algae oil, you skip the fish, and with it the contaminants that can accumulate in it, entirely. Our algae grow on land in closed, sterile tanks, never touching ocean water. The same DHA, from the original source, with the pregnancy claim on DHA officially authorised.
Which product suits you?
Our product Testa DHA was made for this phase: pure DHA from algae oil. Prefer to combine DHA and EPA? Choose Testa EPA & DHA with over 450 mg per capsule. All suitable options are in the pregnancy category. Unsure about supplements alongside your prenatal vitamins? Have a quick word with your midwife or doctor.
DHA for you and your baby
Plant-based DHA from algae oil, without the contaminants that can occur in fish.
Good for you. Good for the ocean.
Authorised health claim (EFSA): maternal DHA intake contributes to the normal development of the brain and eyes of the foetus and breastfed infant; beneficial effect at 200 mg of DHA daily in addition to the recommended daily intake of 250 mg of DHA and EPA. Discuss any doubts with your midwife or doctor.