Expecta - Lipil.. a DHA Supplement

Is this a good supplement to take or it's something that's not really needed? I just purchased these softgel pills (Expecta Lipil DHA Supplement), as it states it helps support the baby's brain and eye development during pregnancy. Not sure if it's a necessity or is it just a good to have? I'm already taking a prenatal viatimin, but thought this would give me a little something extra.

Also, can I continue taking my monthly B-12 injections while pregnant?

~~Gina

The current research says that DHA is good for the baby's cognitive functioning, reduces the risk of pre-term labor and decreases the risk of postpartum depression.  DHA is not in prenatal vitamins and is naturally occuring in animal organ meats and fatty fish.

Since doctors can't really tell a pregnant woman to chow down on fatty fish (too much mercury) to get the DHA and Omega FA needed for proper brain and eye developement in the fetus, why not take the supplement? 

Not sure about the b12, is there a Nutritionist you can consult? What does your OB say? Are your b12 levels low?

 LSUtigerGirl,

Thanks for that info on the benefits of DHA and wow I had no idea it helped with so much. Wells I'll continue taking them then.  I won't see my OB until 07/19, as she won't see me sooner that 8 weeks preggo. I should call my WLS surgeon nutrionist as you stated, as I have a lot of questions regarding diet changes, etc. Thanks girlfriend :)

~~Gina

 Gina,

I still get my B12 injection. I don't know anything about that vitamin at all no help there sorry.

Laurie

Thanks Laurie, it's good to know I can continue taking my B12 injections...cause boy is my energy low and I'm due for an injection today. Hopefully it'll pick me up :) How are you doing sweetie? Have you heard from the hubby yet? How often do you get to talk to him? I was lucky when my husband Todd was in Iraq, as he called me just about everyday.

~~Gina

 Gina,
I am doing good just been really nauseas. I haven't spoked to my husband much lately his internet is not working right now so that makes it a little tough, when his internet is working I hear from him almost everyday. Thanks for asking how I am doing. 

Laurie

Because you have a malabsorptive WLS, you will excrete some of that supplement if it's oil-based (which I think it is.)  If you are a distal RNY I wouldn't even bother, but if your RNY is proximal, it might be worth it.

I'm just trying to eat fish relatively often rather than use supplements.  I have read that the twice-a-week guideline is probably too cautious and that it's probably safe to exceed, but you have to do what you are comfortable with, too.

RainyDayWoman,

Thanks so much for the info. You've given me more things to think about.

~~Gina

I think there are some supplements with more essential fatty acids than Expecta too - if I can find out what they are I will post.  It might be a better deal for you to take a different supplement.

I have to get my shots or I worry about a B-12 deficiency. That sucks when you have it. I tripped over my own feet all the time.