Docosahexaenoic acid
Docosahexaenoic acid (commonly known as DHA; 22:6 omega-3) is an omega-3 fatty acid. It is most often found in fish oil. Most of the DHA in fish and other more complex organisms originates in microalgae of the genus Schizochytrium, and concentrates in organisms as it moves up the food chain. Most animals make very little DHA metabolically, however small amounts are manufactured internally through the consumption of Alpha-Linolenic Acid, an omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed as well as many other seeds and nuts.
DHA can reduce the level of blood triglycerides in humans, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. Low levels of DHA have been associated with ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, and depression, among other diseases, and there is mounting evidence that DHA supplementation may be effective in combating such diseases (see external links at the end of this article).
DHA in breast milk and infant formula
DHA concentrations in breast milk range from 0.07% to greater than 1.0% of total fatty acids, with a mean of about 0.34%. DHA levels in breast milk are higher if a mother's diet is high in fish.
DHA has been an ingredient in several brands of premium infant formula sold in North America since 2001, after approval by the Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada. It, together with arachidonic acid (ARA), are permitted in infant formula because both are components of breast milk found around the world.
DHA makes infant formula more like human milk than "conventional" formula containing linolenic acid and linoleic acid, which are precursors. Formula sold in North America uses lipids from microorganisms grown in bioreactors as sources of DHA.
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External links
- Encyclopedia entry for DHA, from the Truestar Health website, a commercial website supported through membership fees
- Infant Formulas Containing DHA and ARA, from a Cornell University website
- Martek Biosciences, manufacturer of omega-3 fatty acids for the food and suppliment market, only one to produce through fermentation.
Articles
- Research Indicates Increased DHA Levels, Fish Intake Associated With Reduced Risk of Alzheimer's Disease.
- New Study Concludes DHA Restores Blood Vessel Function in Children With High Cholesterol
- Breastfeeding Mothers Taking Martek's DHA Results in Better Sustained Attention in Children
- Lower DHA Status Linked to Risk of Postpartum Depression