Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
Docosahexaenoic acid, also know as DHA, is a member of the
omega-3 fatty acid family. It is necessary for the growth
and development of the brain. It is also essential for a healthy
heart and eyes.
DHA deficiency has been associated with many health problems.
These include ADD, ADHD, cystic fibrosis, unipolar depression,
aggression, phenylketonuria, and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers also believe DHA deficiency may be linked to coronary
heart disease and auto-immune inflammatory disorders.
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid. And, like many other fatty
acids, it can be found in fish, such as salmon, herring, tuna,
cod, trout, shrimp and mackerel.
Benefits of DHA*
- Promotes heart health
- Improves lipid profile through lowering triglycerides
and increasing low-density lipoproteins (LDL's)
- Essential for normal functioning and development of the
brain and nervous system
- Supports eye health
- Supports health of the immune system
Recommended intakes of EPA and DHA have not been established by the FDA. Many nutritionists
suggest we consume a minimum of two portions of oily fish
per week (e.g., salmon). Supporting this notion, the AHA (American
Heart Association) also recommends two servings of fish per
week to support cardiovascular health. Two 4-ounce servings
of salmon contain roughly 3.0 total grams of EPA and DHA (or
6.0 g per week).
The prevailing need seems to be in the range of 0.5–2.0
g per day (500–2000 mg), depending on the individual.
Since there appears to be some evidence that psoriasis and
essential fatty acids may be linked, we suggest 2.0 g per
day.
As omega-3 fatty acids can decrease coagulation properties
in the blood, they should only be used in consultation with
a physician by individuals prone to bruising easily, those
with a bleeding disorder, or anyone taking blood-thinning
medications, and should be discontinued prior to surgery according
to your surgeon's recommendations. Always consult a
physician before starting a supplement regime.
Primary qualities in choosing a DHA supplement include freshness
and purity. Adverse effects such as fishy aftertaste, fishy
burps, and nausea can typically be averted by using with enteric-coated
versions.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration.
How We Help
At DermaHarmony, our goals are to educate chronic skin care suffers about dermatology, share what contributes to health and wellness, and support our readers in any way we can. Our programs promote healthy skin with nutritional supplements, topical treatments and dietary guidance. Learn more about our programs or call us toll-free at 1-800-827-3730. Our Support Desk is open 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. ET, Monday-Friday.
Our skin assessment is designed to help us get a better understanding of your symptoms and to make diet and lifestyle recommendations for you. It is simple, free, takes just five minutes to complete. Take our skin assessment.
Principal Author: M. Ofiyeva
Date of Initial Publication: 07/05/2007
Article Last Updated: 08/26/2009
This website is protected by the copyright
laws of the United States of America.
Pursuant to Title 17, United States Code, the owner of this
content has filed a valid certificate of registration with
the United States Copyright Office.
The statements within this website have not
been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose,
treat, prevent or cure any disease. If pregnant or nursing,
please consult a physician before taking any dietary supplement.
You must be 18 years of age or older to purchase products.
Individual results do vary.