All About DHA
What is DHA?
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is a type of Omega-3 fatty acid, a nutrient that has been studied extensively in connection with heart, brain and eye health. Although it is found in most tissues throughout the body, the highest concentrations of DHA are in the brain, nervous system and the retina of the eye, and it helps support normal development in these areas. DHA has also been shown to help promote heart health.
Important from the Start
Leading health authorities recommend that pregnant and nursing women consume adequate DHA. (12,13)
- DHA exists naturally in breast milk.
- Significant accumulation of DHA in the fetal brain begins during the second trimester of pregnancy. (11,12)
- A child's brain experiences a rapid growth spurt in the first few years of life. (4)
- Newborns and toddlers rely on breast milk or formula as a DHA source, but getting adequate DHA can be a challenge as children transition to solid foods.
Important for Kids
DHA provides a nutritional boost for children's growing minds and bodies. According to pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene, "Most American kids are not getting the DHA they need. The typical three-year-old needs about 150 mg of DHA a day. On average, they are only getting about 19 mg, a tiny fraction of what they need for optimal brain growth."
DHA is found primarily in fatty fish, and many Americans, especially kids, don't eat enough of these foods to get the recommended amount of DHA in their diets. (1) In addition, the FDA and EPA recommend that young children limit their fish intake to 3 servings/week due to potential mercury contamination. (2)
Important through Life
As we mature, DHA continues to be an important nutrient. Experts have studied DHA for its connection with helping promote heart health and possible impact on adult eye health and mental acuity.
Scientists are also currently researching the possibility that a lack of DHA may contribute to certain behavioral and mood disorders affecting adults. (4,8)
Brain Health
- DHA is highly concentrated within brain tissue, and is a key component of a healthy brain. (6)
- Scientists are currently researching the possibility that a lack of DHA may contribute to certain behavioral and mood disorders affecting both children and adults. (4,8)
- One study found that those children age 5-12 who were given an Omega-3/Omega-6 supplement experienced a positive influence on reading skills and behavior. (7)
- Some studies have also explored a possible link between insufficient DHA and symptoms of age-related mental decline. (9)
Eye Health
- DHA is a major structural fat in the retina of the eye, accounting for up to 50 percent of the total fatty acids in the retina. (10)
- Because DHA is so prevalent in eye tissue, many researchers suspect that it plays an important role in visual development during infancy and childhood. (10,11)
- DHA is also being studied for its possible impact on adult eye health. (9)
Heart Health
- DHA has been shown to help promote heart health. (1)
- The Food and Drug administration has reviewed the available data regarding the relationship between DHA and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid, another fatty acid) and cardiovascular disease and has authorized the use of the following claim: "Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease."
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