All About Omega-3 DHA

An essential building block of brain cells that ensures normal development.

What is Omega-3 DHA and why is it important?

What is Omega-3 DHA?

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the primary omega-3 fatty acid, is a major component of membrane phospholipids in the brain, retina, and spermatozoa. (i), (ii)

Why is Omega-3 DHA important?

DHA comprises up to 15% of a child’s brain. (iii), (iv)

DHA is critical in brain and eye function, aging, and neurological and psychiatric/behavioral illnesses. (v)

DHA is essential for maintaining normal brain structure, function and metabolism. Its brain concentration depends on dietary DHA content as well as liver synthesis from its shorter chain nutritionally essential PUFA precursor, α-linolenic acid (α–LNA, 18:3n-3). (vi)

DHA is involved in memory formation, synaptic membrane function, photoreceptor biogenesis and function, and neuroprotection. (vii), (viii)

DHA has also been shown to improve cognition, particularly in children, including: (ix)

  • Reading performance
  • Verbal learning
  • Spelling
  • Relational memory
  • Visual acuity
  • Focus

How can we include Omega-3 DHA in our diet?

Dietary sources of DHA and EPA include the meat of cold-water fish, including mackerel, herring, tuna, halibut, salmon, and cod liver.

Brainiac® snacks include meaningful amounts of Omega-3 DHA per serving. For more specific ingredient information, visit our Product Pages.

DHA / EPA Deficit: Recommended Intake vs. Actual Intake (US NHANES)

 

For More Information

  • The Brain Nutrition Gap

    Watch the Video
  • Interim Summary of Conclusions and Dietary Recommendations on Total Fat & Fatty Acids, World Health Organization/ Food and Agriculture Organization

    Read the Article