🧠 DHA: Essential for Brain & Vision Development

I. Promoting Brain and Intellectual Development

Key Component of Neural Tissue

• DHA makes up 20% of fatty acids in the cerebral cortex.

• Essential for neuronal cell membranes → accelerates neural signal transmission.

• Supports infants’ cognitive abilities, memory, and learning capacity.

Critical Supplementation Window

• Ages 0–3 = peak period of brain development.

• Daily intake of ≥100 mg DHA most effectively supports neural network formation.

II. Ensuring Visual System Health

Core Substance in the Retina

• DHA accounts for ~50% of retinal phospholipids.

• Directly involved in photoreceptor cell development.

• Deficiency may impair visual signal processing.

Preventing Vision Deficits

• Consistent supplementation → improves visual acuity.

• Reduces early risks of refractive errors.

III. Science-Based Supplementation Strategies

Age-Specific Approaches

Recommended Dietary Sources

• Optimal choices: Salmon, sea bass (freshwater DHA), hairtail

• Serving advice: 2–3 servings weekly (palm-sized portions)

• Cooking method: Steam or boil (avoid frying) to preserve nutrients

IV. Important Considerations

• Avoid Overdose & Contaminants: Large predatory fish (e.g., tilefish) may contain heavy metals.

• Supplement Quality: Algal DHA supplements require >40% purity for efficacy.

• Rational Use:

  • Children with balanced diets → no mandatory supplements.

  • Preterm infants/special cases → dosage should be guided by a doctor.

✨ Key Insight: DHA’s benefits are synergistic with good sleep, quality education, and nurturing care—it cannot replace holistic development.