Health & Nutrition : Benefits of DHA

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid. It is found in cold water fatty fish and fish oil supplements, along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Vegetarian sources of DHA come from seaweed. DHA is essential for the proper functioning of our brains as adults, and for the development of our nervous system and visual abilities during the first 6 months of life. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are part of a healthy diet that helps lower risk of heart disease. Our bodies naturally produce small amounts of DHA, but we must get the amounts we need from our diet or supplements. Most people in the Western world do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.

USES
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Because omega-3 fatty acids are needed for children's brains to develop properly, researchers have examined whether fish oil might reduce ADHD symptoms. So far, results have been mixed. One study showed fish oil might help, but many patients dropped out of the study before it was completed.

Depression
Although some studies have shown that fish oil reduces symptoms of depression, it isn't clear whether DHA alone has the same effect. Other studies suggest it may be EPA which has the positive effect on depression.

Heart Disease
Fish oil appears to have positive effects on existing heart disease. It also may lower the risk for developing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil help lower triglycerides (fats in the blood), lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of blood clots, improve the health of arteries, and reduce the amount of arterial plaque (which narrows arteries and causes heart disease).

Infant Development
DHA plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the central nervous system as well as visual functioning in infants.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Several small studies indicate that fish oil may help reduce symptoms and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it does not stop the progression of the disease.

Menstrual Pain
Fish oil appears to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps when taken on a regular basis (not just when menstruating).

Raynaud Syndrome
Several studies show that high doses (12 g) of fish oil can reduce sensitivity to cold in the fingers and toes of people with Raynaud syndrome. Take doses this high only under a doctor's supervision.

Lupus
Two small studies suggested that fish oil reduced fatigue and joint pain associated with lupus.