A recent study revealed that pregnant women who consume fish can reduce the likelihood of giving birth to a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by approximately 20%.
Researchers from the Autism Institute at Drexel University, Harvard Medical School, and the Pilgrim Health Research Institute analyzed data collected from approximately 4,000 women to investigate the link between fish consumption, supplement intake, and autism-related neurodevelopment.
Their findings indicated that eating fish during pregnancy could lower the likelihood of a child being diagnosed with autism by up to 20%. This reduction was consistent regardless of whether women ate small amounts or consumed fish more than twice a week.
The research team attributed the benefits to essential nutrients in fish, such as omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, iron, and zinc. Iodine plays a crucial role in supporting children’s brain, language, and auditory development.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend pregnant women to consume a variety of seafood at least three times a week.
However, the study found no link between taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements and reduced risk of autism. Drexel University stated, “Omega-3 fatty acid supplements did not yield the same benefits as eating fish.”
The research team suggested that supplements might include additives or contaminants, whereas consuming fish directly provides beneficial nutrients such as iron and vitamin D.
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