Omega-3s and NAC support reproductive and offspring health
- Mothers omega-3s nourish developing child
Omega-3 fatty acids are the most important for healthy pregnancy and development of the newborn child. In this study, 161 pregnant women answered questionnaires about dietary fats and omega-3 supplements. Doctors measured maternal levels during gestation and umbilical levels at delivery.
Four in ten of the women were taking omega-3 supplements, and had significantly higher levels of DHA compared to those not taking supplements. The omega-3s also penetrated the umbilical cord, which contained significantly higher levels of EPA and DHA.
Discussing the findings, doctors said many women do not consume enough fatty fish to support healthy omega-3 levels, and that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids may boost maternal and infant health at a critical development stage.
REFERENCE: NUTRIENTS; 2023, VOL. 15, NO. 1, 231
- NAC rebalances hormones in PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) produces abnormally high levels of the androgenous male sex hormones in women, including testosterone, which can reduce ovulation and fertility. One possible cause is insulin resistance, as elevated insulin triggers higher androgen levels. This review of 18 studies covered 2,185 participants with PCOS.
Women who supplemented with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) saw decreased testosterone levels and increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, which are often low in PCOS. FSH regulates reproductive development from puberty through the child-bearing years.
Doctors said NAC appears to increase cellular levels of antioxidants such as glutathione, helping prevent oxidation of lipids that support reproductive health.
Reference: British Journal of Nutrition; January, 2023, Article No. 3270
