Mother's of all ages.

The One Thing Moms of All Ages Need in Their Diet

By Anna Mahoney

Everyone knows that moms make the world go round. They are constantly putting the needs of others before their own. So in celebrating Mothers Day, it's important that we make sure Mom is taking the time to care for herself as well. Let's get Mom feeling healthy and powerful with one simple step. But with motherhood encompassing such a variety of women, you may be asking yourself a question, "Is there really ONE thing that ALL moms can benefit from in their diet?".

Although today's mom can be anyone from an 85 year old great grandmother, to a young mother to be, the answer is yes! Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) can benefit moms and women of all ages. EFAs are fats that our bodies need to function but we cannot make on our own. This means we have to get them through our diet. They are involved in nearly every bodily function from head to toe, at every age from infant to elderly. At every stage of being a mom, EFAs make her strong and healthy to take care of the ones she loves.

For the New Mom:

Fertility

Studies have shown that women who have a consistent intake of EFAs have higher rates of fertility, by improving blood flow to the uterus, balancing hormones and promoting the development of a healthy cervical mucus.

Fetal Development

EFAs are essential to the development of the nervous and circulatory systems of a growing fetus.

Improves Mood

One quarter of new moms will battle with Post Partum Depression in the first year after giving birth. EFAs have been shown to produce similar effects as antidepressants in the treatment of Post Partum Depression and other mood disorders.

For the Seasoned Mom:

Breast Cancer Prevention

Researchers have found women who have a higher intake of EFAs have a reduced risk of breast cancer.

Prevent Cardiovascular Disease

A higher intake of EFAs has been shown to decrease triglycerides, a fat compound found in the blood linked to cardiac events such as heart attack and stroke.

Hot Flashes

Recent studies have shown that an increase in EFAs in the diet can decrease the occurrence of hot flashes by effecting cell membranes and neurotransmitter function.

For the Grand-Mom:

Decrease Joint Pain

By blocking inflammation receptors , EFAs can decrease arthritis and other inflammatory joint issues.

Improve Memory

Studies have begun to link the intake of dietary EFA to the prevention of long term memory loss in aging, decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Food Sources

Now that you have seen the benefits of EFAs throughout a lifetime of motherhood, don’t hesitate to start adding them into your diet. Luckily they are easily found in these delicious whole foods that you can eat every day:

Give them a try and remember, healthy moms make a happy world. Happy Mother's Day!

The information in this article is for general educational purposes only, and should not be construed or interpreted as medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment, and before undertaking a new heathcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article or any linked materials.

Anna Mahoney is a Licensed Acupuncturist with a Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition from Rutgers University. In her practice, she focuses on bringing her patients back to health through Chinese Medicine, nutritional counseling, and overall wellness care. In her personal life, she is a passionate cook, musician, yogi, and athlete. Anna lives in New Jersey, with her husband, John, and their dog, Betty. Anna blogs at The Green Banana.