Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an important structural constituent of membranes specifically in the brain and eye. DHA makes up 30% of the brain and 50% of the retina’s structure. Its accumulation in the fetal brain takes place mainly during the last trimester of pregnancy and continues at very high rates up to the end of the second year of life [1]. In infants, DHA is important for optimal visual and cognitive development.

The period from birth to 2 years of age is considered the primary growth phase for the human brain when measured in terms of brain weight. However, certain areas of the brain are not fully developed by the age of two, and development, as well as growth, continues throughout childhood and adolescence. Myelination of brain frontal lobes begins as early as 6 months of age and continues throughout childhood and adolescence with spurts of development identified at 2 years of age, 7–9 years of age, and during mid-adolescence. DHA is vital for the myelination of frontal lobes and their development. DHA-rich frontal lobes are thought to be responsible for executive and higher-order cognitive activities such as planning, problem-solving, and focused attention [2].

The prefrontal cortex is where the development of high-level cognitive function corresponds to a child‘s social, emotional, and behavioural development. Many components, of the diet, are known to affect cognition and influence learning. DHA is the principal omega-3 fatty acid in brain grey matter representing about 15% of all fatty acids in the human frontal cortex and is known to affect neurotransmitter pathways, synaptic transmission, and signal transduction. Its multiple double bonds and unique structure allow DHA to impart a disorder to membranes which allows for effective cell signalling [2].

Like the brain, eyes are highly enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which accumulate in these tissues during late fetal and early neonatal life. Very high levels of DHA are present in the retina, specifically in the disk membranes of the outer segments of photoreceptor cells. Therefore, DHA is vital for optimal eye health in Children [3].

The usual intake of DHA among toddlers and children is low and the endogenous formation of DHA also seems to be relatively low. Some studies show improvements in cognition and behavior as the result of supplementation with DHA [2].

Indian children are often found to be deficient in vitamins, micro-nutrients, and protein – but what about DHA in Kids? DHA has emerged as a front-line nutrient as it plays an integral part in the development and functionality of the brain, eyes, and heart. Its supplement is extremely important to ensure the healthy development of your child’s brain and eyes.

There is a raft of research confirming the role of DHA in IQ, memory, learning, behavior, mood, and eyesight, among various other benefits – outlining supplementation as perhaps the single most important nutrient during the growth of your child.

Reference:

1. Lauritzen, Lotte, et al. "DHA effects in brain development and function." Nutrients 8.1 (2016): 6.

2. Kuratko, Connye N., et al. "The relationship of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with learning and behavior in healthy children: a review." Nutrients 5.7 (2013): 2777-2810.

3. Hodge W, Barnes D, Schachter HM, et al. Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Eye Health: Summary. 2005 Jul. In: AHRQ Evidence Report Summaries. Rockville (MD): Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US); 1998-2005. 117.