By Gina Jaeger, PhD
Last reviewed on May 10, 2019
DHA supports the growth and development of an infant’s brain and retina
The infant and toddler years are a critical period of growth and development. Over the span of a few short years, children go from rolling over to running, babbling to talking, and making messes to making masterpieces (assuming you’re into macaroni jewelry).4 But these aren’t the only changes taking place; children’s bodies undergo significant structural and functional changes during the first few years of development as well.1,2
Babies require adequate nutrition to support the important changes occurring in early development—particularly a sufficient amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).1–3 Because these foundational nutrients affect numerous cellular and physiological processes associated with growth, EPA and DHA are considered critical for normal development during infancy and toddlerhood.1,2
DHA, in particular, is necessary for the growth and maturation of an infant’s brain and retina, and is required in large amounts during pregnancy and the first few years following birth.3,5 Prior to birth, the DHA required for proper fetal development is provided by placental transfer from the mother.6 Following birth, babies must receive DHA through breast milk, formulas fortified with DHA, or DHA supplementation (i.e. fish oil).6
Given its prominent influence on the foundational structure and functions of the developing brain, whether a child receives adequate DHA in early life can have lasting implications for their long-term development.3 For example, observational and intervention studies show that adequate omega-3 levels help support babies’ cognitive, social, and physical development by promoting:
- Visual acuity and retinal development
- Performance on measures of language and cognition
- Mental and motor skill development
- A healthy immune response to allergens
- Attentional control
