DHA 

DHA is a key nutrient that is vital for overall growth and development, particularly for brain and eye development, especially during the formative years of children.

When it comes to brain and eye development, DHA is one of the most widely recognised nutrients.  Sufficient DHA intake is believed to be important for the normal growth and maturation of the brain and eyes.

DHA also supports cognitive development. Studies at various life stages indicate that DHA supports normal IQ² and preserves visuo-spatial learning and memory³. For the brain, adequate DHA allows for optimal function.

Sources of DHA

While the body can convert the essential long chain polyunsaturated fat, alpha-linolenic acid to DHA, some experts believe that during the period of rapid growth, this may not provide enough and, therefore, recommend ensuring adequate DHA in the diet. Listed below are some food sources of DHA.

As DHA is an important nutrient for the human’s body, the lack of DHA may impact optimal development and long-term health.

In the growing years of kids, DHA supports brain tissue growth, and the deficiency of DHA may have negative impacts on brain development and function.

DHA also helps activate rhodopsin, a membrane protein in the rods of the eyes. As rhodopsin helps the brain receive images, DHA deficiency may impair vision.

In adults, low levels of DHA are associated with increased risk of heart disease and death. Some experts believe that DHA supplements can improve multiple risk factors of heart diseases including blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Did You Know?

DHA helps with certain learning outcomes, visual acuity and brain development.

References:

¹ 1,2: 1. Leung HH et al. Neurochem Res. 2020 May;45(5):1007-1019. 2. Kuchan et al. Br J Nutr. 2016 Jul;116(1):126-31.
² Cohen J.T, et al. Am. J. Prev. Med. 2005; 29:366–374.
³ Yurko-Mauro K. Alzheimers Dement. 2010;6:456–464.
⁴ Koletzko B et al. J Perinat Med. 2008;36(1):5-14.
⁵ Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations . Fats and fatty acids in human nutrition report of an expert consultation, November 10-14, 2008. Geneva: FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 91. Rome; 2010. http://www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1953e/i1953e00.pdf (accessed September 23, 2022)
⁶ DiNicolantonio JJ. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 4;12(8):2333.
⁷ Shindou H et al. J Biol Chem. 2017 Jul 21;292(29):12054-12064.
⁸ Ginter E et al. Bratisl Lek Listy. 2010;111(12):680-5.

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