Omega-3 fatty acids and risk of preeclampsia

Abstract

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for fetal brain and retina development and are transferred to the fetus from the mother. This transfer of omega-3 fatty acids depends on the development and function of the placenta, which is a connecting organ between the mother and the fetus. However, lower levels of maternal omega-3 fatty acids can alter early developmental processes of the placenta leading to pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia (PE). Future studies are required to understand the effect of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on placental oxidative stress and inflammation in women with PE.