Dha acid – a key ingredient of the diet for pregnant women and children

Nowadays, more and more attention is paid to healthy eating and supplementation, especially in the context of child development and a healthy pregnancy.

One of the key dietary ingredients that plays an important role in these processes is docosahexaenoic acid, known as DHA. In this article, we will look at what DHA is and what it does in the body, where it can be found, who should consider supplementation and what benefits it brings to pregnant women and children.

Dha – what is dha and what is it responsible for in the body?

DHA, i.e. docosahexaenoic fatty acid, is one of many omega-3 acids. It is an important structural component of our body’s cells, especially important for the nervous system and retina. DHA acid has a positive effect on the developing brain and vision in children. It is also necessary to maintain normal blood cholesterol levels and supports heart function.

Dha acid – where to find it? Sources of dha in food

The best source of DHA is sea fish, especially fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna. DHA can also be found in marine algae and some vegetable oils, such as linseed oil or rapeseed oil. It is worth remembering that the human body cannot synthesize enough DHA on its own, so it is important to consume it regularly with the diet or use supplements.

Who should supplement dha and how much?

DHA supplementation may be considered primarily by people who do not consume enough sea fish or other natural sources of DHA. These include pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and children. People on a vegetarian or vegan diet may also need DHA supplementation because their diet is often low in this fatty acid.

Dha acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding women

For pregnant and breastfeeding women, getting enough DHA is crucial for the proper development of the baby’s brain and nervous system. This acid supports the developing fetal brain and may result in better cognitive function in the child later in life. DHA supplementation during this period may be recommended by your doctor.

Dha acid for babies and children

In infants and children, DHA plays an important role in the process of growth and development. It helps build the brain, improves concentration and cognitive functions, and also affects the development of eyesight. Therefore, DHA supplementation may be considered, especially in children who do not consume marine fish or other sources of DHA.

Your suggestions

It is always worth consulting a doctor or nutritionist before starting DHA supplementation, especially when it comes to children, pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also worth taking care of a balanced diet that will provide all the necessary nutrients, including DHA acid.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about healthy eating, supplementation and the benefits of DHA, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “Omega-3 and heart health: how do DHA and EPA work?”
• “Health Benefits of Oily Fish and Fish Oil”
• “Vegetarian diet and health – how to supplement nutritional deficiencies”

Maintaining the right amount of DHA in the diet can contribute to healthier development and better functioning of the body, especially in children and women during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to what we eat and possibly considering supplementation to take care of our health and well-being.