DHA is the primary structural fat in both the gray matter of the brain and the retina of the eye, making it essential for brain and eye development and function. DHA represents about 97% of all
omega-3 fatty acids in the brain, and is especially concentrated in the region of the brain that is responsible for complex thinking skills. It is also concentrated in the retina and membranes of the eye, and represents 93% of all omega-3 fatty acids in the eye. DHA is a key component of the heart, and helps to 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). It is also associated with a reduced risk for developing Alzheimer’s, dementia and a slowing of normal, age-related
cognitive decline, as well as fighting Rheumatoid Arthritis. DHA is also said to prevent breast, prostate and testicular cancers, and can slow the progress of cancer if it has already occurred.

DHA is particularly important during the first years of life and early childhood, as a child’s brain is still steadily growing at age four. Newborn babies utilize significant amounts of DHA for brain, nerve and eye tissue development. Studies have shown that babies who received DHA during gestation or during the first year of life showed improved mental development and better visual acuity, and had significantly lower blood pressure.

Taking supplementary DHA during pregnancy and nursing has been shown to significantly increase the DHA available to the fetus and infant, and can improve hand-eye coordination, motor skills and attention spans. DHA has also been shown to play a part in maternal well-being.