Friday, September 23, 2011

What is DHA? - Do We Need it?

DHA is something that is added into some milks and formulas. I always knew it was a good thing.

According to this website, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chair polyunsaturated omega 3 fatty acid. DHA accounts for about 97 percent of the omega-3 fats in the brain and 93 percent of the omega-3 fats in the retina. It also benefits the heart.

By taking it, it strengthens the brain, eyes and heart. Just like calcium is essential for building strong bones.

DHA is found in cold water fatty fish, such as salmon. It is also found in fish oil supplements, along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Vegetarian sources of DHA come from seaweed.

A study was just done where med students added DHA into formula to see if babies would pay attention to pictures and computer screens longer. They did.

If your child is given cows milk, try and get one where it is rich in DHA. Talk to your pediatrician about adding DHA into your child's diet.




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