Nutrition during pregnancy plays a crucial role both for the health of the future mother and for the development of the baby. Among the various essential nutrients, fatty acids stand out, such as omega-3, omega-6 y DHABut do we really understand how these affect gestation and the early development of the baby?
What are fatty acids and how are they classified?
Fatty acids are lipids which are divided into two main types according to their chemical structure: saturated e unsaturated. Within the unsaturated fats we find essential ones such as omega-3, omega-6 and DHA that play a vital role in the brain growth and the baby's nervous system, constituting up to the 25% of these tissues.
The impact of lipids on the baby's nervous and visual system
The development of the baby's nervous system begins from the first weeks of gestation and extends until five years of life, with greater intensity during the third trimester of pregnancy and the first two years outside the womb. In this critical phase, the lipids They allow the generation of electrical impulses in neurons, essential not only for the brain but also for the correct visual development.
The baby's liver is still immature to properly synthesize these compounds, so the maternal contribution, both during pregnancy and breastfeeding, is crucial. Subsequently, once complementary foods are started, it is equally important to include sources of lipids in the baby's diet.
Additional benefits of dietary lipids
Beyond the nervous and visual system, the lipids They perform key hormonal and structural functions in the body:
- Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E and K require lipids to be properly absorbed in the body.
- Energy production: Lipids are a dense source of energy, providing 9 kcal per gram compared to 4 kcal for carbohydrates and proteins.
- Inflammatory regulation: Acids such as omega-3 help modulate inflammation, which is crucial in child development and the prevention of chronic diseases.
Main sources of healthy lipids
The quality of lipids is just as important as their quantity. Here we highlight the best sources of fatty acids:
- For pregnant and lactating women: Fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel are rich in DHA.
- Vegetable oils: Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats.
- Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, chia and flax seeds provide polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Pediatric recommendations for the inclusion of lipids
According to experts, parents should make sure to introduce healthy fats from the earliest years, adapting to each stage:
- From 0 to 6 months: Breast milk as the main source of fat.
- From 6 months to 2 years: Introduce foods rich in essential fatty acids such as purees with olive oil.
- From the age of 2: Ensure a balanced diet with fatty fish, nuts and quality oils.
When combined with a balanced diet, lipids not only support physical growth but also the cognitive development of the baby, laying a solid foundation for a healthy life.
A diet rich and balanced in healthy fats not only benefits the baby during the first years of life, but also lays the foundation for optimal health in adulthood.
But how much grammage is it convenient to obtain per portion in a glass of milk for a 1-year-old baby?