(P27-015-25) Docosahexaenoic Acid Intake Among Kansas WIC Clients

Objectives: Our objective is to report docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake among Women Infant and Children (WIC) clients in the state of Kansas during periods of preconception, pregnancy, and lactation. We hypothesize WIC clients will fall short of a recently published clinical practice guideline on omega 3 fatty acids advising at least 250 mg/day during preconception with an additional DHA during pregnancy to prevent preterm birth.

Methods: A validated DHA Food Frequency Questionnaire (DHA FFQ) was linked to the WIC shopper app, inviting participation. Flyers with a QR code linked to the survey were also distributed in Kansas WIC clinics. Participants were categorized as 1) not pregnant but intending to be, 2) pregnant, 3) breastfeeding, or 4) other, with the option to elaborate. Total DHA intake was calculated from food and supplements as mean ± standard deviation. Frequencies were tabulated for each category based on meeting the 250 mg/day recommendation.

Results: From June 2023 to December 2024, 286 surveys were completed. Pregnant participants reported a mean DHA intake of 172.5 mg/day ± 168.7, with 40.0% taking DHA supplements. Breastfeeding participants reported a mean intake of 137.0 mg/day ± 156.6, with 23.3% taking DHA supplements. Participants who were not currently pregnant but were intending to become pregnant in the future reported a mean DHA intake of 127.2 mg/day ± 128.3, with 10% consuming DHA supplements. Across all groups, 85.2% of participants were not meeting the clinical practice guideline of 250 mg/day.

Conclusions: Despite the known benefits of DHA, the majority of WIC clients in the state of KS are not meeting clinical practice guidelines. WIC provides nutrition counseling, yet limited access to DHA-rich foods may contribute to poor intake. Understanding DHA status can improve education and access to DHA, benefiting maternal and infant health.

Funding Sources: None