DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an indispensable structural substance for brain development. Studies have shown that DHA accounts for over 90% of the omega-3 fatty acids in the brain and 10% to 20% of the total lipids, especially concentrated in the gray matter region of the brain [1]. As an important component of neural membrane phospholipids, DHA directly affects the structure and function of brain cells, laying the foundation for the establishment of neural networks.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has clearly pointed out that there is a direct causal relationship between DHA and brain development [2]. It is recommended that infants under 24 months of age consume 100mg of DHA daily, and people aged 2 to 18 consume 250mg of DHA daily. Chinese expert consensus also recommends that pregnant women and lactating mothers consume no less than 200mg of DHA daily, and infants and young children should reach 100mg daily.
Clinical research has confirmed that supplementing DHA during pregnancy has a significant promoting effect on children’s psychological development. A study found that if pregnant women supplemented fish oil from 18 weeks of gestation to 3 months postpartum, their children’s comprehensive psychological scores at the age of 4 were significantly higher than those of the control group [3]. Another study on school-aged children aged 7 to 9 showed that daily supplementation of 600mg of DHA for 16 weeks could enhance reading ability and improve attention-related behavioral problems (ADHD symptoms) [4].
DHA promotes brain health through multiple pathways: it affects the synthesis and secretion of neurotransmitters and enhances the speed of signal transmission; promote hippocampal development and enhance memory and cognitive functions,and exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to protect neurons from damage. These mechanisms work together to provide comprehensive support for children’s intellectual development.
It is crucial to choose high-purity DHA supplements. The third-generation fish oil technology can achieve a DHA purity of 84.4%, far exceeding the 12% purity level of ordinary fish oil. It is recommended to supplement according to the age group as needed to ensure that the brain development receives sufficient nutritional support and lay a solid foundation for the child’s healthy growth.
[1]Docosahexaenoic Acid and Cognition throughout the Lifespan
[2] DHA and contribution to normal brain development | EFSA https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/3840
[3]Pediatrics. 2003 Jan;111(1):e39-44.
[4]Richardson AJ, Burton JR, Sewell RP, Spreckelsen TF, Montgomery P. Docosahexaenoic acid for reading, cognition and behavior in children aged 7-9 years: a randomized, controlled trial (the DOLAB Study).
