Fish Consumption During Pregnancy May Lower Autism Risk

No Association Found with Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements

A recent study suggests that eating fish during pregnancy could lower a child’s risk of being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder by up to 20 percent. However, taking fish oil supplements (omega-3) did not have the same effect.

A joint research team in the United States analyzed data collected from about 4,000 women to investigate whether fish consumption and supplement intake are related to autism-related neurodevelopment. The study, published in the international academic journal ‘American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,’ found that consuming fish during pregnancy reduced the risk of children being diagnosed with autism by up to 20%. This was consistent across all levels of fish consumption, from “any fish consumption” to “more than twice a week.”

Salmon (Image source: Pixabay)

Of the 1,377 women who took part in the study (about 34%), 1,377 said they did not eat any fish during pregnancy, and 65 to 85% said they did not take omega-3 or other fish oil supplements.

“This study provides additional evidence of the safety and benefits of regular fish consumption during pregnancy,” said study co-author Dr. Emily Oken, a professor at Harvard Medical School and the Pilgrim Health Care Institute. “Other proven benefits include a reduced risk of preterm birth and improved cognitive development.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend that pregnant women eat a variety of seafood at least three times a week, as fish is a major source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for fetal brain development.

Pregnant woman (Image source: Pixabay)

However, no association was found between taking omega-3 fatty acids as a supplement and autism diagnosis. “This study was insufficient to determine whether taking omega-3 supplements during pregnancy was related to autism spectrum disorder,” said Drexel University Autism Research Institute Professor Christine Rioll.

Dr. Emily Oken emphasized the importance of fish consumption during pregnancy, stating, “In addition to reducing the risk of autism, it has also been proven to be effective in reducing the risk of premature birth and improving cognitive development abilities.” She added, “Considering the low fish intake and increased diagnosis of autism in the United States, authorities should further strengthen the guidelines for fish consumption by pregnant women.”