From the time you were born, docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, has been a key component for your developing brain and eyes. And, it continues to support brain and eye function throughout life. As a matter of fact, DHA is a major structural and functional fat found in the brain and retina and is also a key component of the heart and cardiovascular system, and one of the omega-3 fatty acids recommended by the American Heart Association and USDA Dietary Guidelines for good cardiovascular health.
Additionally, there has been positive research on the role that DHA may play in adult brain and eye health. A study providing 900mg of algal DHA for six months suggests that DHA supplementation at this level may support the memory of healthy adults aged 55 years and older.
As awareness of the importance of DHA continues to grow, more attention is being paid to the fact that adults may need to supplement their diets with DHA. On average, the typical American diet contains less than 100mg/day, well below recommendations by expert bodies. A growing awareness of the dietary sources of DHA and the inclusion of DHA in certain fortified foods and supplements is making it easier for people to include this important nutrient in their diets every day.
Am I getting enough DHA? Find out by using our DHA calculator.