A new study funded by the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program at the National Institutes of Health indicates that eating fish during pregnancy is associated with about a 20% lower likelihood of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis, especially in females. The study also observed a modest reduction in autism-related traits in offspring. However, omega-3 fatty acid supplements did not show a similar benefit.
Fish is a vital source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maternal health and fetal neurodevelopment. The analysis of ECHO Cohort data revealed that approximately 25% of pregnant participants either never consumed fish or ate it less than once a month. The uptake of omega-3 supplements was even lower.
Researchers aimed to determine whether limited fish consumption or omega-3 supplementation during pregnancy correlated with autism diagnoses or parent-reported autism-related traits. The study analyzed data from around 4,000 participants, measuring fish intake and supplement use and assessing neurodevelopmental outcomes using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS).
The findings showed that consuming fish during pregnancy was linked to a reduced likelihood of autism diagnosis and slightly lower SRS scores, indicating fewer autism-related behaviors. This association was consistent across all levels of fish consumption. No significant correlation was found between omega-3 supplements and autism diagnosis.
Dr. Emily Oken of Harvard Medical School emphasized the importance of improving public health messaging on fish consumption guidelines during pregnancy, given the low intake rates in the U.S. and rising autism diagnoses. She highlighted that regular fish consumption not only benefits neurodevelopment but also reduces risks of preterm birth and enhances cognitive development.