Story highlights Researchers found eating fish more than three times a week during pregnancy was associated with childhood obesity

At higher levels of consumption, it's possible that contaminants mask or outweigh the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

(CNN) Advice to pregnant women to not overdo it on fish is getting an endorsement from new research.

In a massive long-term study spanning 11 countries, researchers found that eating fish more than three times a week during pregnancy was associated with increased risk of childhood obesity, according to an article published online Monday by JAMA Pediatrics.

Researchers also found that consuming fish more than three times a week was linked to rapid growth in the first two years if life.

The findings are in line with recommendations from the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency that pregnant women should eat fish, but no more than two to three servings (8-12 ounces) per week.

Fish contains vital nutrients for developing fetuses and should not be avoided by pregnant mothers, the study says, but pregnant women should adhere to fish consumption advisories.

Read More