How Omega 3s promote fertility
One type of fatty acid, omega 3, found in fish such as salmon or flaxseed, may play an important role in promoting fertility.
You probably already know that adding fish to your diet can do you a lot of good, promoting your heart health but also reducing inflammation.
Now, according to scientists at the University of Colorado, there is also evidence that so-called “good” fat can increase the chances of getting pregnant.
Omega 3s are part of the essential fatty acids like omega 6.
Sometimes they are also referred to as Vitamin F.
The study, presented at the American Society of Reproductive Medicine annual meeting , was conducted in mice so it will certainly take time and more research before omega 3s in the form of foods or supplements become part of infertility treatments.
Despite this, there are many positive expectations.
Mice fed high doses of these fatty acids had more egg cell precursors than the control group. These precursors then mature into healthy eggs that can be fertilized.
Going to analyze these eggs it was seen that the quality of the same was higher in mice with high omega 3. High quality eggs increase the likelihood of being fertilized and developing into a live pup.
Based on this, the authors stated that omega 3s have the potential to improve fertility although the way is unclear.
It is supposed that these fats can lower levels of inflammation which can negatively affect ovarian function.
Further studies will have to replicate and confirm the role that omega 3 fatty acids could play in fertility, but for now, according to the authors of the study, nothing prevents us from consuming more fatty acids of this type. (Be aware, though, that some people who are predisposed to bleeding problems may be at a higher risk of bleeding from high doses of omega-3s in their diet, but these cases are relatively rare.)
Other benefits related to omega 3 fatty acids are currently known: in the fetus they help neuronal development and for this reason many prenatal vitamins include forms of omega 3 fats.
Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.