DHA (algae-based)

[Anonymous]

Has anyone been taking algae-source DHA supplements? I just ordered some from amazon (PureGels brand) and wondered if anyone else is doing this. I had a dr appt. today and talked with him about DHA. I didn't want to take fish oil supplements, and he recommended algae-based supplements. There was also a story about DHA on NPR a few weeks ago: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=15823852

[Anonymous]

I do not use it for myself, but I believe this is the same place the DHA in formula comes from. I have read some babies can be sensitive to it.

[Anonymous]

Oh, OK, thanks. I didn't know that (about it being in formula, too). Sensitive in what way? Upsets their stomach?

[Anonymous]

I used them while pregnant and still do now that I'm nursing -- no problems yet!

[Anonymous]

I just wish I'd found out about them sooner. I'm 6 months pregnant now, and have been avoiding fish (have had it only a few times in pregnancy) b/c of fear of mercury. (I know doctors say it's safe to have once a week, but I was really afraid about exposure to mercury.)

[Anonymous]

I just read (and sorry, can't recall where now) that you need the fish based DHA rather than the plant based DHA (which are different compounds) to boost your baby's brain development. You can get fish oil capsules made from small fish, which don't have the mercury risk that tuna and swordfish have. I think the brand we use is Spectrum - my DH orders it online, but I think GNC carries it.

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I found a really thorough posting about omega-3s in pregnancy (DHA, EPA, fish oil, flax oil, algae-based supplements, etc.) on google answers:
http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=743097

It's good but a long read.

It seems that the research is not conclusive yet, and we should all make our own best judgment with the help of our OBs.

My OB recommended fish oil supplements. I found an over the counter supplement that has been tested to be free of mercury and is made from fish body parts, rather than liver (which can have more Vit. A than you really need). I have friends taking the algae based supplements and they're doing just fine. But I tried the algae based ones and they made me throw up -- I have a really sensitive stomach.