Nutrient Needs During Pregnancy

Fat

The essential fatty acids linoleic (18:2 n-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (18:3 n-3) needs are the same for women who are pregnant as those who are not pregnant. However, some experts recommend at least 200 mg/day of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). (AND, 2014)

These fatty acids are important components of cell membranes and essential to the formation of new tissue. Food sources of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids are primarily vegetable oils, including soybean, safflower, and canola oils.