Emerging Evidence Links DHA Levels to Better Birth Outcomes
Recent research published in the Journal of Perinatology strengthens the case for establishing a target omega-3 DHA level during pregnancy. Conducted at Citadelle Regional Hospital in Liège, Belgium, this prospective cohort study tracked 108 healthy women with singleton pregnancies. Using red blood cell omega-3 levels (Omega-3 Index), researchers examined the relationships between DHA status, gestational length, birth weight, and other outcomes.
The study revealed a clear association between higher DHA levels and longer pregnancies, larger head circumferences, and increased birth weight. Conversely, a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio correlated with shorter gestational length and lower birth weight.
These findings are consistent with decades of observational research, dating back to the 1980s, which first noted favorable pregnancy outcomes in fish-eating communities such as the Faroe Islands. Today, DHA’s role is being re-examined with a more personalized and evidence-based approach.
The Critical Importance of Early Pregnancy DHA Status
Most prior studies have focused on maternal omega-3 levels during late pregnancy. However, the early weeks — particularly the first trimester — are increasingly recognized as pivotal for fetal development. Nutrient availability during this period may influence not only birth outcomes but also the child’s long-term health trajectory.
The Belgian study authors emphasize that preterm birth and fetal growth restriction remain major obstetric challenges, and better prevention strategies are needed. Personalized nutrition, including DHA testing and tailored intake, could be a practical and impactful solution.
Ballstad Omega-3 is a trusted source of high-quality DHA, offering pregnant women a reliable way to achieve optimal levels from the very start.
A Suggested DHA Target: 5% on the Omega-3 Index
Dr. Kristina Harris Jackson, from OmegaQuant, previously proposed a target DHA level of 5% based on her 2018 research. The Belgian study reinforces this recommendation. Personalized nutrition strategies that include DHA testing can help guide women to reach this protective threshold, potentially reducing the risk of complications like preterm birth.
For those who may not consume oily fish regularly, supplementation becomes even more important.
The ORIP Trial: Insights and Controversies
In September, the New England Journal of Medicine published the results of the ORIP Trial — the world’s largest omega-3 supplementation study during pregnancy. Involving approximately 5,400 Australian women, the trial examined whether 900 mg of DHA daily could reduce very early preterm births (before 34 weeks).
The headline result? DHA supplementation did not significantly reduce early preterm birth. But the nuances tell a more complex story.
Baseline DHA Levels May Be the Key
In ORIP, women had relatively high DHA status at baseline — approximately 4.5%, close to the 5% target. This may have limited the observable benefits of supplementation. In contrast, the KUDOS study in the U.S. involved women with lower DHA levels and found a significant reduction in preterm births with supplementation.
Additionally, many ORIP participants were already taking low-dose DHA (≤150 mg/day), potentially skewing the results. According to Dr. Jackson, DHA levels rose by just 0.6% with 900 mg/day — a surprisingly small increase that suggests potential issues with compliance or metabolism.
Supplementation Timing and Twin Pregnancies
Unlike other studies, ORIP stopped supplementation at 34 weeks to avoid post-term birth interventions. However, this decision eliminated DHA intake during the final and possibly most critical stage of pregnancy, when fat and DHA transfer to the fetus peaks.
The inclusion of twin pregnancies — a known confounder in preterm birth research — further complicates interpretation. A supplementary analysis showed significant benefits only in women carrying singleton pregnancies.
Interpreting ORIP: Personalized Supplementation Still Matters
While the ORIP study raised important questions, it did not disprove DHA’s benefits. Instead, it underscores the value of personalized supplementation guided by DHA testing. Dr. Jackson points out that a daily intake of 200–300 mg DHA remains a practical recommendation for most pregnant women — especially those with low baseline levels.
Personalized Testing: A Path to Better Prenatal Nutrition
OmegaQuant’s Prenatal DHA Test allows women and their healthcare providers to measure blood DHA levels and ensure they reach the 5% target. This individualized approach supports informed decisions on dietary intake and supplementation throughout pregnancy and beyond.
After birth, tools like the Mother’s Milk DHA Test can help monitor DHA levels in breastmilk, supporting ongoing nutritional needs during lactation and postpartum recovery.
Ballstad Omega-3’s transparent sourcing, purity testing, and commitment to potency make it a smart choice for mothers who want peace of mind about the supplements they take during this critical time.
Final Thoughts
The growing body of evidence supports the role of omega-3 DHA in improving birth outcomes, particularly when intervention starts early in pregnancy. Personalized testing and targeted supplementation may offer the best route for optimizing maternal and infant health.
Credit: OmegaQuant Website
