Survey of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Diets of Midwest Low-Income Pregnant Women

Abstract

The objectives of this project were to determine the omega-3 fatty acid ( -3 FA) consumption of low-income pregnant women, and to identify food sources of -3 FA in their diets. Thirty women provided three days of dietary intake that were analyzed using the Food Processor Plus computer program. Mean daily consumption of -3 FA was 1.060 0.030 g/day. The major form of the -3 FA was -linolenic acid ( -LNA; 93%), with less from eicosapentanoic acid (EPA; 2%), and docosahexanoic acid (DHA; 5%). Foods that provided the most -LNA were fats, oils, salad dressings, and milk products. EPA and DHA were provided in fish, seafood, chicken, and eggs. Nearly one-half of the women in this study consumed < 75% of the Canadian Recommended Nutrient Intakes for -3 FA. We conclude that some low-income pregnant women in the Midwest consume diets low in -3 FA. There is a need for agriculture and nutrition research on the development of new food products that provide -3 FA.