Does Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Pregnancy and During Lactation Protect the Child From Allergic Disease?

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Pregnancy and During Lactation: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial.

The incidence of allergic diseases has increased and a relation between allergy and dietary fatty acids has been proposed. Modulation of the maternal immune function during pregnancy may have an impact on future clinical outcomes in the child. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of omega (ω) - 3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on the development of allergic disease (i.e., allergic eczema) in the child at 2 years of age. Pregnant women with allergic disease in their immediate family were supplemented daily with 2.7 g ω-3 LCPUFA (n=70) or 2.8 g soybean-oil as placebo (n=75) from gestational week (gw) 25 until the third month of breastfeeding. Skin prick tests, detection of circulating specific IgE antibodies and clinical examinations of the infants were performed at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months of age. The mothers and children were monitored regarding immune modulatory effects during the entire study period.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant woman, at 25 weeks of gestation, with allergic symptoms (rhinitis, conjunctivitis, eczema, asthma or food allergy) herself or the father to be or an older sibling

Exclusion Criteria:

• Soy allergy
• Fish allergy
• Treatment with anti-coagulation
• Commercial omega-3 supplementation