DHA

DHA is available in capsule form for oral administration. It is usually taken in doses ranging from 400-800 mg/day.

Manufacturers - Secom, GNC, Laboratoire Optim, Marnys, Naturmil, Beauty Pharma, NOW Foods etc.

DHA plays an essential role in overall health, with a number of therapeutic and prophylactic indications:

• Brain and vision development - It is vital for the development of the central nervous system and vision in infants and is often included in infant formulas. 

• Cognitive function - In adults, DHA supports cognitive function and may prevent age-related mental decline or Alzheimer's disease.

• Eye health - DHA is an important component of the retina, maintaining eye health and reducing the risk of macular degeneration.

• In pregnancy - Pregnant women are often advised to take DHA to support optimal brain development and vision of the baby. There are formulas specially developed for pregnancy, such as Fertilovit For 2 plus DHA.

Most guidelines for healthy adults recommend at least 250-500 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day.

Children up to 2 years of age may need 10-12 mg/kg, while older children may need up to 250 mg a day. 

For example, Secom's Pure DHA product Pure DHA Secom is mainly intended for children. Pure DHA contains 90 mg DHA and 60 mg EPA per 3 capsules.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to consume at least 200 mg of DHA or 300-900 mg of EPA and DHA combined, per day.

DHA intake in pregnancy during the third trimester determines the baby's DHA levels, with the greatest accumulation occurring in the brain in the first few months of life.

DHA supplements are considered safe for most people. However, there are a few situations in which it should be avoided or used with caution:

• Fish or seafood allergy - Fish oil-derived DHA should be avoided in favor of algae alternatives.

• Clotting disorders - DHA can thin the blood, so people with clotting disorders should consult a doctor before taking supplements. 

• Surgery - If you are planning surgery, you should stop taking omega-3 fatty acids a week or two beforehand.

DHA supplements are usually taken with meals as they are better absorbed in the presence of dietary fat. 

You may consider that curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, may enhance the body's absorption of DHA.

DHA is generally well tolerated, but in some cases side effects can occur, such as:

• Gastric discomfort - Fish oil can sometimes cause nausea, diarrhea or bloating.

• Fishy taste - Fish oil supplements can leave an unpleasant fishy aftertaste. 

• Bleeding - DHA may have a slight anticoagulant effect, so people taking blood-thinning medicines should be careful.

DHA may interact with:

• Blood-thinning drugs - People taking blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin should consult their doctor before taking DHA as it may increase the risk of bleeding.

• Anti-hypertensive drugs - DHA can lower blood pressure, so it may interact with drugs intended for this purpose.

• Anti-diabetic drugs - DHA could raise blood sugar levels and reduce the effects of diabetes medicines.

An accidental overdose of DHA is rare, but very high doses can lead to excessive bleeding and gastrointestinal discomfort.

In general, taking more than 2 grams per day has no additional benefit and is not recommended.

DHA supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Some liquid formulas require refrigeration after opening. 

• WebMD, Docosahexaenoic Acid (Dha) - Uses, side effects and more
• Healthline, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
• Healthline, 12 health benefits of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
• NIH, Omega-3 fatty acids