Does inadequate maternal iron or DHA status have a negative impact on an infant's functional outcomes?

Abstract

Marginal intake of iron and omega-3 long-chain fatty acids (DHA) is prevalent among pregnant women. It is not clear to what extent poor iron or DHA status during pregnancy impacts on an infant's functional outcomes. A few studies suggest that inadequate maternal iron or DHA status may be associated with suboptimal functional outcomes in infants. In addition, there is a lack of prospective studies using randomized, double-blind design or experimental studies with appropriate animal models. Although both nutrients are involved in early brain development and their metabolism is interrelated, no study has examined the interaction between iron and omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy.

Conclusion: Long-term studies on large cohorts of pregnant women and their infants are needed to determine whether inadequate iron or DHA status during pregnancy is detrimental to infant neurodevelopment.