Taking high levels of omega-3 can decrease the chances of your baby getting asthma and eczema

The study, commissioned by the Health Supplements Information Service (HSIS) shows the numerous benefits of taking omega-3 but reveals that far too few women are getting enough. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils can prevent the onset of asthma and eczema in their babies, helps to aid normal eye and brain development, boosts the baby’s immune system and is proven to help reduce post-natal depression. Most of us eat far too little oily fish and the intake of omega-3 has fallen by 8% since the 1970s. Although, if we trebled our intake it could have a negative effect on the world’s marine life.

Later in life, omega-3 also appears to help slow down age-related cognitive decline in healthy elderly people, and reduces the risk of dementia. Emerging evidence also shows that diets rich in fish oils can protect against the development of bowel and breast cancer.

HSIS scientific advisor and leading independent dietician, Dr Carrie Ruxon says, ‘The benefits of consuming Omega-3 are clear and there is sufficient evidence on heart health and immune function to continue promoting increased omega-3 consumption across the lifecycle. There is also steadily growing evidence pointing to a distinct benefit for foetal programming via increased maternal oqmega-3 intake during pregnancy.’

The Food Standards Agency (FSA), recommends eating two portions of fish a week, one of which should be an oily fish such as sardines, mackerel or salmon.