A new study has found that eating fish during pregnancy can reduce the likelihood of a child being diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder by 20%. However, taking fish oil supplements did not produce the same result. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that shows the safety and benefits of regular fish consumption during pregnancy, as it can also reduce the risk of preterm birth and improve cognitive development.
Pregnant women are advised to eat 8 to 12 ounces of seafood low in mercury per week to aid in fetal brain development. However, a quarter of the pregnant participants in the study did not consume any fish. The research team, led by Drexel University’s A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, examined the fish intake and fish oil supplementation of over 10,800 pregnant women for associations with autism diagnoses and parent-reported autism-related traits.
The study found that between 65% to 85% of participants did not take fish oil or omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Omega-3s are essential nutrients that are crucial for the proper functioning of various organs, especially the heart, brain, and eyes. While omega-3 can be found in foods such as fish, walnuts, flax seeds, and leafy vegetables, fish oil supplements are also available. Since the body does not naturally produce omega-3, it is important to obtain it through diet or supplementation.
The researchers at Drexel University found that the link between prenatal fish consumption and lower autism prevalence was stronger for female children. However, omega-3 supplements during pregnancy were not associated with autism diagnosis or autism-related traits. Autism is a complex developmental condition that affects various aspects of an individual’s behavior, communication, and interactions with others. Despite being not well understood, researchers continue to explore various factors that may influence its development.
The findings of the study were published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The researchers noted that they were unable to determine which specific types of fish were consumed, the timing of fish intake during pregnancy, and the exact amount of omega-3s in the supplements. They emphasize the need for better public messaging on the importance of consuming fish during pregnancy, given the numerous benefits it offers for both maternal and fetal health. More research is needed to better understand how fish consumption and omega-3 supplementation can influence autism risk in children.
