We wrote previously about premature babies and their increased risk of NEC (Necrotizing enterocolitis). On the positive site, science has shown that mothers may reduce their risk of giving birth prematurely and reduce serious adverse events.

It seems intake or perhaps high intake of DHA can reduce the risk of giving birth prematurely as several meta-analyses have concluded that n-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), reduce early preterm birth (EPB, < 34 weeks), however, the amount of DHA required is unclear. In one study published in the Lancet, eleven hundred participants (1000 mg, n = 576; 200 mg, n = 524) were enrolled between June 8, 2016 and March 13, 2020, with the last birth September 5, 2020. 1032 (n = 540 and n = 492) were included in the primary analyses. The higher dose had a lower EPB rate [1.7% (9/540) vs 2.4% (12/492), pp=0.81] especially if participants had low DHA status at enrolment [2.0% (5/249) vs 4.1%, (9/219), pp=0.93]. Participants with high enrolment DHA status did not realize a dose effect [1000 mg: 1.4% (4/289); 200 mg: 1.1% (3/271), pp = 0.57]. The higher dose was associated with fewer serious adverse events (maternal: chorioamnionitis, premature rupture of membranes and pyelonephritis; neonatal: feeding, genitourinary and neurologic problems, all pp>0.90).

A clinical trial shows that a daily supplement of 1000 mg DHA is likely better than 200 mg in reducing EPB less than 34 weeks (pp =0.91), and very likely better among pregnant individuals with low DHA status (pp = 0.93). A recent study shows that ethnic groups more prone to give premature birth may benefit even more from a high intake of DHA (1200 mg/d).

As an example, 100 g of farmed Atlantic salmon provide approximately 1000 mg of EPA and DHA and other fatty fish like herring, tuna and mackerel also contains high levels of EPA and DHA. If you are not a fish lover or you just think that eating more than 100 g of fatty fish per day is a bit too much a daily supplement of DHA may do the job.