Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a naturally occurring omega-3 essential fatty acid found in fish and some algae. It is a downstream biochemical metabolite of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Some interconversion exists between DHA and EPA, so if there is a deficit of one it can be made up when the other is present. DHA promotes brain and retinal function.
DHA's benefit in brain development in infants and children is well understood. Rapid growth of the human brain occurs in the latter part of pregnancy and the first months after birth, and infants rely on maternal intake of DHA for proper brain development. Human trials have demonstrated DHA supplementation during pregnancy and lactation can result in improved mental processing, intelligence, and achievement scores in young children. Studies of human infants suggest DHA intake is important for normal brain development.
With aging, DHA levels in brain phospholipids and plasma diminish, and decreased levels have been associated with a decline in cognitive function, specifically in terms of learning and memory. Research suggests DHA repletion in the elderly may be of benefit because it has the potential to improve nerve signaling, possibly translating to improved cognitive function.
DHA crosses the blood-brain barrier, protecting cell membranes from toxin-induced oxidative damage, particularly from organophosphate and carbamate pesticides.
Thorne offers algae-derived
DHA for those who prefer a non-fish source of this pure omega-3 fatty acid.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
