Omega-3s, especially DHA and EPA, are essential for brain building and proper brain function. Brain maturation begins in utero, as soon as the central nervous system is built. Pregnant women’s nutritional needs in DHA and EPA type omega-3s are therefore considerable.
\nVarious studies have also shown that maternal DHA supplementation during the second half of pregnancy and during breastfeeding has long-term beneficial effects on the child’s visual acuity, neurological development and attention span.<\/p>\n<\/div>
The consumption of 2 Columbus eggs per day by 8 breastfeeding women for 6 weeks in their usual diet shows a modification of the lipid profile of the breastmilk with omega-3, leading to a decrease in omega-6 while preserving the level of C20:4 n-6 essential fatty acids.
\nThe integration of these essential fatty acids in phospholipid form and not as triglycerides, improves their bioavailability and their metabolic destination. This could have implications for the development of the central nervous system and the prostaglandin balance in children.<\/p>\n
Reference: Changes in the breast milk fatty acids and plasma lipids of nursing mothers following consumption of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched eggs. Cherian, G., et al, 1996, Nutrition<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>