Red blood cell n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in first trimester of pregnancy are inversely associated with placental weight.

Objective: To investigate pregnancy outcome in relation to red blood cell (RBC) level of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the first trimester of pregnancy and the influence of lifestyle factors on the RBC level of long-chain n-3 PUFA.

Design And Setting: Observational study in a community with traditional fish and cod liver oil consumption.

Population: Seventy-seven healthy pregnant women.

Docosahexaenoic acid in red blood cells of women of reproductive age is positively associated with oral contraceptive use and physical activity.

Optimal intake of the long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and proper balance between intake of n-6 PUFA and n-3 PUFA are important for human health. Considerable evidence exists to show that DHA has a marked benefit during pregnancy. Lifestyle factors can affect the biosynthesis of DHA from dietary precursors, incorporation into membranes and degradation.

Effects of storage time and added antioxidant on fatty acid composition of red blood cells at -20 degrees C.

The stability of PUFA in venous red blood cells (RBC) of women aged 25 to 55 years (n = 12) was investigated during storage at -20 degrees C. The RBC sample from each participant was divided into seven portions: one baseline with the antioxidant BHT, another without BHT, samples without BHT stored for 2, 4, 9, or 17 wk, and samples with BHT stored for 17 wk. No difference was found in proportions of PUFA at baseline and after storage for 2 and 4 wk without BHT, and 17 wk with BHT.

Relationship between dietary intake of cod liver oil in early pregnancy and birthweight.

Objective: To investigate the possible association between birth outcome and marine food and cod liver oil intake of healthy women in early (prior to 15 weeks of gestation) pregnancy.

Design: An observational study.

Setting: Free-living conditions in a community with traditional fish and cod liver oil consumption.