DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that is vital for good brain and eye health, especially for fetus and young children at their development stage. DHA is located in cell membrane, making up over 90% of the omega-3 fatty acids in our brain and up to 25% of its total fat content.
The body can produce DHA but in small amount hence it is important to supplement from food diet. Low levels of DHA in brain and eyes may disrupt nerve cell signals, therefore resulting in poor eyesight and brain function. For pregnant mothers, a deficiency is linked to compromised cognitive function (e.g. information processing, memory, attention, and emotion control).
Common food sources include seafood, such as deep sea fish (e.g. mackerel, salmon), shellfish, fish oils and some types of algae. However, some individuals may dislike fish or be allergic to shellfish, thus these foods are not consumed frequently and leads to a lack of DHA. Together with EPA, it has anti-inflammatory effect.