Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that comes from fatty fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel. DHA and its counterpart eicosapentaenoic acid (EHA) can be obtained through fish oil supplements as well. Seaweed also contains DHA and is a good vegetarian alternative.¹ DHA is a critical nutrient for healthy brain development during the first 6 months of life. That’s why breast milk naturally contains DHA and it’s often added to infant formula.¹ DHA is naturally produced by the body in small amounts. However, in order to get the appropriate amount of DHA, humans must consume food sources of DHA or take supplements.¹

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Health Uses and Health Benefits

DHA uses include being an essential component of healthy growth and brain development in children. DHA allows children to develop healthy eyesight, nervous systems and brain function.¹ DHA benefits are also vital for maintaining normal brain function in adults.² DHA benefits can lead to overall better health and development as children age. DHA deficiencies are thought to be linked to many conditions, including fetal alcohol syndrome, cystic fibrosis and developmental disorders.² DHA benefits for healthy brain development include:^{1 2}

• Improving learning ability
• Reducing incidents of learning deficits and disabilities
• Lowering inflammation
• Alleviating muscle cramping and pain
• Reducing triglycerides

DHA uses include being a natural remedy to help improve the following conditions:

• Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) - DHA benefits include being able to reduce joint swelling and improve energy levels, which can help treat symptoms of lupus.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - A DHA deficiency is possibly linked to developing ADHD. Taking fish oil supplements can help to improve ADHD symptoms by helping to enhance brain function.
• Depression - DHA has been shown to have a positive effect on people suffering from depression. Depression may also be linked to a DHA deficiency during the infant stage of life.
• Raynaud Syndrome - DHA uses include helping to reduce cold sensitivity in the fingers and toes of people who suffer from Raynaud syndrome.
• Heart Disease - DHA benefits include being able to lower triglyceride and blood pressure levels and improve a number of other risks associated with heart disease.

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Side Effects and Precautions

DHA side effects are generally mild such as loose stools or upset stomach. People with low blood pressure should be cautious of taking DHA in high doses as it may cause a further drop in blood pressure.¹

References

1. http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/docosahexaenoic-acid-dha
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10479465