The focus in research on eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has shifted from intake to levels, since development of a standardized method for measuring levels (every human being has levels of EPA&DHA in red blood cells, an Omega-3 Index). Bioavailability of EPA&DHA is so complex that intake does not predict uptake. Also, clinical events correlate with levels, much less with dose of EPA&DHA. This questions recommending 200 mg/day of EPA&DHA for every pregnant woman, done by many scientific societies.
In pregnancy, Omega-3’s are actively transported to the fetus at the mother’s expense. Build-up and maintenance of the brain, and other organs depends on EPA&DHA. In Germany, most pregnant women had an Omega-3 Index below the target range of 8-11%, quite independent of supplementation, and premature birth is a major health issue in Germany. Premature birth and other health issues of pregnant women and their offspring correlate with levels of EPA&DHA in blood and can be reduced by increasing intake of EPA&DHA, according to individual trials and pertinent (Cochrane) meta-analyses. Extremely high intake or levels of EPA&DHA may generate health issues, like bleeding, prolonged gestation, or even premature birth. Thus, while direct data remain to be generated, the target range for the Omega-3 Index might also apply to pregnancy.
Over de spreker
Prof. Dr. C. von Schacky invented, defined, and developed the Omega-3 Index with a collaborator from 2002 on. He is 64 years old, heads Preventive Cardiology of University of Munich, and his laboratory Omegametrix in Martinsried, both Germany.