Abstract

SILVA, Deila Regina Bentes da; MIRANDA JUNIOR, Paulo Fernando  and  SOARES, Eliane de Abreu. The significance of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in pregnancy and lactation. Rev. Bras. Saude Mater. Infant. [online]. 2007, vol.7, n.2, pp. 123-133. ISSN 1519-3829.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1519-38292007000200002.

Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAS), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachinodonic acid (AA) are essential components for both neurological development and visual function of the child. This review focused on recent studies concerning the value of these nutrients during gestational and neonatal periods. The need for (LC-PUFAS) is enhanced during intra-uterine and first months of life. The mother is the principal source of fatty acids to the child. Maternal milk contains all required nutrients for infant's growth and development. Babies do not have the ability to elong and desaturate fatty acids therefore; feeding formulas should contain preformed LC-PUFAS.

Keywords : Pregnancy; Lactation; Lactating; Essential fatty acids; Linoleic Acid; Linolenic acid; Docosahexaenoic acid; Arachinodonic acid.