Reviewing clinical data, it’s clear **Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA, Unflavored** shines during pregnancy. It’s top-notch, packed with goodness, and really helps the baby’s growth.
Pregnancy is a critical time for both mother and baby, and ensuring proper nutrition is essential. One crucial nutrient for pregnant women is DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports fetal brain and eye development. While DHA can be obtained through a balanced diet that includes fatty fish, many women may not consume enough of it during pregnancy. This is where DHA supplements come in.
DHA supplements for pregnancy come in various forms, including softgels, liquids, and gummies. When choosing the best DHA supplement for pregnancy, it’s essential to pay attention to several factors. First, the supplement should contain at least 200-300 milligrams of DHA per serving, as recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. It’s also crucial to choose a supplement that is free of contaminants such as heavy metals and toxins.
We spent hours researching and testing various DHA supplements to identify the best ones for pregnant women. In this article, we’ll share our findings on the top DHA supplements for pregnancy, including their benefits, ingredients, and potential drawbacks. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which DHA supplement is the best fit for your needs and preferences.
Best DHA Supplements for Pregnancy
- Splendid Splurge: Garden of Life Oceans Mom Prenatal Fish Oil DHA
- Ultimate Splurge: Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA, Unflavored
- Affordable Choice: The Honest Company Think Ahead Pre + Postnatal DHA Supplement
- Best for the Money: Thorne Prenatal DHA
- Top-Tier Choice: Pink Stork Prenatal DHA, Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplements with DHA and EPA, Pregnancy and Postpartum Essentials, Brain Support, Mood Health, Cognitive and Fetal Development – 60 Softgels
As expectant mothers, we all want to do everything we can to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. One important aspect of this is ensuring we are getting enough DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that is crucial for fetal brain and eye development. While it is always best to get nutrients from whole foods, sometimes we may need a little extra help from supplements.
After researching and testing various options, we have compiled a list of the best DHA supplements for pregnancy. These supplements have been carefully selected based on their quality, effectiveness, and safety for both mom and baby.
Garden of Life Oceans Mom Prenatal Fish Oil DHA
If you’re looking for a prenatal DHA supplement that is easy to swallow, pleasant to take, and has no fishy taste, the Garden of Life Oceans Mom Prenatal Fish Oil DHA is a great option.
Pros
- The small, once daily strawberry-flavored softgel is easy to swallow and pleasant to take.
- The fish oil is ultra-pure and carefully purified using a multiple-stage molecular distillation process that both concentrates Omegas and removes environmental toxins.
- The deep sea Omega 3 supplement is verified pure and fresh through independent, third-party testing that exceeds strict international standards for mercury, PCBs, and more.
Cons
- The “strawberry flavor” is barely noticeable and may not mask the fishy taste for some people.
- The price point is higher than some other prenatal DHA supplements on the market.
- The bottle only contains 30 small softgels, which may not last as long as other brands.
We’ve been using the Garden of Life Oceans Mom Prenatal Fish Oil DHA supplement for a few weeks now and have been pleased with the results. The small, once daily softgel is easy to swallow and doesn’t leave a fishy aftertaste. We appreciate that the fish oil is ultra-pure and has been carefully purified using a multiple-stage molecular distillation process to remove environmental toxins. It’s also great to know that the supplement is verified pure and fresh through independent, third-party testing that exceeds strict international standards for mercury, PCBs, and more.
While the “strawberry flavor” is barely noticeable, we still appreciate that it’s there and may help mask the fishy taste for some people. However, if you’re someone who is particularly sensitive to the taste of fish, this supplement may not be the best option for you. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other prenatal DHA supplements on the market, which may be a concern for some budget-conscious consumers. Finally, the bottle only contains 30 small softgels, which may not last as long as other brands.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality prenatal DHA supplement that is easy to swallow and pleasant to take, the Garden of Life Oceans Mom Prenatal Fish Oil DHA is definitely worth considering.
Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA, Unflavored
If you’re looking for a high-quality DHA supplement for pregnancy, Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Crafted from fresh, wild-caught, omega-rich fish for purity
- Unflavored for sensitive stomachs
- Added Vitamin D3 supports bone, mood & immune system health during pregnancy
Cons
- Pill is a bit large but smooth
We have been using this product for a few months now, and we have been impressed with the quality of the product. The fact that it is crafted from fresh, wild-caught, omega-rich fish provides peace of mind that we are getting a pure product. The unflavored option is great for those with sensitive stomachs, as it doesn’t have a fishy aftertaste. We appreciate the added Vitamin D3, which supports bone, mood, and immune system health during pregnancy.
The only downside we have noticed is that the pill is a bit large, but it is still smooth and easy to swallow.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality DHA supplement for pregnancy, Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA is definitely worth considering.
The Honest Company Think Ahead Pre + Postnatal DHA Supplement
If you’re looking for a reliable prenatal DHA supplement, The Honest Company Think Ahead Pre + Postnatal DHA Supplement might be the one for you.
Pros
- The daily supplement helps support brain and eye health during and after pregnancy.
- The enriching formula is made from premium Norwegian fish oil, ensuring a high-quality supplement.
- The supplement is NSF certified, doctor and dietitian reviewed, and its ingredients are not genetically engineered.
Cons
- The product may melt or get damaged if exposed to heat or sunlight, so customers are expected to be available during product delivery.
- The supplement comes in a larger size, which may be difficult for some people to swallow.
- The supplement may not be suitable for people with fish allergies.
This supplement is convenient and easy to take, with no animal by-products, and it’s not tested on animals. It’s made in the USA with US and imported materials, and its packaging may vary.
The Honest Company Think Ahead Pre + Postnatal DHA Supplement is a great choice for those looking for a reliable prenatal DHA supplement. Its high-quality ingredients and certifications make it a trustworthy option for supporting brain and eye health during and after pregnancy. However, customers should be aware of the potential for melting or damage if exposed to heat or sunlight, and the larger size of the supplement may be difficult for some to swallow.
Thorne Prenatal DHA
If you’re looking for a high-quality DHA supplement to support a healthy pregnancy and development of your baby’s brain and nervous system, Thorne Prenatal DHA is a great choice.
Pros
- Provides 650 mg of DHA and 200 mg of EPA per serving to support mom and baby.
- Gentle on the stomach with rosemary, mint, and mixed tocopherols to reduce fish burps.
- Promotes DHA levels in breastmilk to support baby’s growth and development.
Cons
- Some users may find the mint flavor to be too strong.
- A bit more expensive compared to other DHA supplements.
- The bottle only contains 60 capsules, which may not last a full month.
We’ve been using Thorne Prenatal DHA for a few weeks now, and we’re happy with the results. The softgels are easy to swallow, and we haven’t experienced any fishy aftertaste or stomach upset. We appreciate that the supplement contains both DHA and EPA, which are essential omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy pregnancy.
One of the standout features of this supplement is the addition of rosemary, mint, and mixed tocopherols, which help reduce fish burps and are gentle on the stomach for mothers who experience pregnancy-related nausea. We also like that Thorne is a trusted brand with a strong reputation in the health industry.
However, we did find the mint flavor to be a bit strong for our liking. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it may be something to consider if you’re sensitive to strong flavors. Additionally, the supplement is a bit more expensive compared to other DHA supplements on the market. The bottle only contains 60 capsules, which may not last a full month depending on your dosage.
Overall, Thorne Prenatal DHA is a great choice for expecting mothers who want a high-quality supplement to support their baby’s development. While it may be a bit more expensive, the benefits are worth it in our opinion.
Pink Stork Prenatal DHA, Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplements with DHA and EPA, Pregnancy and Postpartum Essentials, Brain Support, Mood Health, Cognitive and Fetal Development – 60 Softgels
If you’re looking for a reliable and effective DHA supplement for pregnancy, Pink Stork Prenatal DHA is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The supplement features two omega-3 fatty acids – 225mg DHA and 75mg EPA – sourced sustainably from fish, which makes it a great addition to your prenatal routine.
- DHA is essential for your baby’s brain and retina development, and this supplement provides the right amount of DHA to support your baby’s growth and development.
- The DHA supplement is also crucial for postnatal wellness, helping ease postpartum brain fog and hormone balance while also providing lactation support.
Cons
- Some users may not like the occasional fish-tasting burp that can result from taking this supplement.
- The price of the supplement may be higher compared to other DHA supplements.
- The supplement may not be suitable for those who have regular periods.
Pink Stork Prenatal DHA is a great supplement to consider if you’re looking for a reliable and effective way to support your baby’s growth and development during pregnancy. The supplement features two omega-3 fatty acids – 225mg DHA and 75mg EPA – sourced sustainably from fish, which makes it a great addition to your prenatal routine. Additionally, DHA is essential for your baby’s brain and retina development, and this supplement provides the right amount of DHA to support your baby’s growth and development.
Another great feature of Pink Stork Prenatal DHA is that it’s also crucial for postnatal wellness. The supplement can help ease postpartum brain fog and hormone balance while also providing lactation support. This is a great way to ensure that you’re providing the best possible care for yourself and your baby, even after pregnancy.
While there are some potential downsides to this supplement – such as the occasional fish-tasting burp and the higher price compared to other DHA supplements – overall, Pink Stork Prenatal DHA is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and effective way to support their baby’s growth and development during pregnancy.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best DHA supplement for pregnancy, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Look for High-Quality Ingredients
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a DHA supplement is the quality of the ingredients. Look for supplements that use high-quality, pure DHA derived from sustainable sources. Make sure the supplement is free from contaminants like heavy metals and toxins.
Check the Dosage
The dosage of DHA can vary from supplement to supplement, so it’s important to check the label to ensure you’re getting the right amount. The American Pregnancy Association recommends a daily intake of 200-300mg of DHA during pregnancy.
Consider the Form
DHA supplements come in various forms, including capsules, soft gels, and liquids. Consider which form will be easiest for you to take and which is most convenient for your lifestyle.
Read Reviews
Before purchasing a DHA supplement, take the time to read reviews from other pregnant women who have used the product. Look for reviews that discuss the effectiveness of the supplement, the taste (if applicable), and any side effects.
Talk to Your Doctor
As always, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen. Your doctor can help you determine the best DHA supplement for your individual needs and can advise you on any potential risks or interactions with other medications.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best DHA supplement for your pregnancy and ensure that you and your baby are getting the nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the optimal DHA dosage guidelines for pregnant women?
The optimal DHA dosage for pregnant women is 200-300 mg per day. This amount can be obtained through consuming fatty fish or taking DHA supplements. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation.
Can excessive DHA intake affect pregnancy, and what are the limits?
Excessive DHA intake can have negative effects on pregnancy, including increased risk of bleeding and premature birth. The upper limit for DHA intake during pregnancy is 3000 mg per day. It is important to follow recommended dosage guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
At what stage of pregnancy should DHA supplementation begin?
DHA supplementation should begin as early as possible in pregnancy, ideally before conception. This is because DHA plays a crucial role in fetal brain and eye development, and early supplementation can help ensure optimal neurological development.
What are the primary benefits of taking DHA supplements during pregnancy?
The primary benefits of taking DHA supplements during pregnancy include improved fetal brain and eye development, reduced risk of preterm labor, and potential improvements in maternal mental health.
Which foods are rich in DHA suitable for pregnant women?
Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are rich in DHA and suitable for pregnant women. However, due to concerns about mercury and other contaminants in fish, it is important to consume fish in moderation and choose low-mercury options.
How does DHA intake relate to prenatal neurological development?
DHA intake is crucial for prenatal neurological development, as it plays a key role in the formation of the fetal brain and nervous system. Adequate DHA intake during pregnancy has been linked to improved cognitive and visual development in children.
