Despite the warnings about the potential contaminants in omega 3 rich fish, more benefits for pregnant women just keep getting discovered.

A study conducted at the University of Western Australia gave 4 grams of fish oil daily to some of the pregnant women participating, and others received olive oil. Then, when after the children were born, and reached two and a half years of age, tests were done to measure mental development, vocabulary, and child behaviour, amongst others.

There were no major differences in the language skills and growth between the two groups. However, when it came to comprehension, the average length of phrases used, and vocabulary, the children in the fish oil group had marked improvements. Another interesting benefit for those children whose mothers had taken fish oil supplements was good hand-eye coordination. So, perhaps they will excel at tennis and driving! Actually, given the appalling road statistics in Queensland, Australia, perhaps the state government here should seriously think about making fish oil supplements mandatory for Queensland pregnant women. It could only help…

The fish oil was given to the women during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy. It contained 1.1g of EPA, and 2.2g of DHA. EPA and DHA are the active constituents of fish oil.

The study can only be considered a preliminary study, as it was conducted amongst a relatively small group of women - 98 women started the study, and 83 completed it. However, the results are very promising, and add weight to the list of known benefits of fish oil. This includes a protective cardiovascular effect, a beneficial effect on depression and cognition, and the prevention of certain cancers.

Despite the potential toxicity in some ocean omega 3 fish, most fish oil supplements of good quality are safe. They are usually tested for contamination, and the manufacturer’s website usually has information on it regarding this (if they are a good quality oil).

The study report can be found at Nutraingredients.