Pregnant women want to make sure they are taking every possible prenatal precaution to ensure their children’s healthy development. Although “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” has both helped–and daunted–soon-to-be mothers over the years, doctors still advise them using evidence-based practices derived from rigorous medical testing and a culture of experimentation. The intended result is less adherence to urban legends and more confidence about prenatal health choices.
Well, sort of. For years, obstetricians told women to take fish oil during their pregnancies. A key ingredient in fish oil is docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, which is considered integral to cognitive development. The logic was simple: mother takes fish oil, baby receives more DHA, and baby’s IQ rises! The plan sounded remarkably easy, and several observational studies touted its benefits. After all, who wouldn’t want to ensure their child’s acceptance to an elite university just by taking a pill?