Usually accompanied by the photo or sound of an adorable baby, many of us have come across an advertisement encouraging us to give DHA to our infants and toddlers. However, many of these commercials fail to explain what DHA is and how it works, or why DHA is so important. Read on to learn about the benefits of DHA for babies’ growth and development, and how you can implement it into your child’s diet.
What Is DHA?
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is an essential building block for your baby’s brain, eye, and nervous system development. Studies have found that the benefits of DHA for babies are many. Babies who received DHA supplements in research had improved IQ scores, mental stability, vision, and nervous system response.
For the first two years of development, including the time spent in the womb, an infant’s body is growing at a tremendous rate. In fact, once a child has turned a year old, the brain has developed by 175 percent.
In other words, during this time of crucial and fast-paced development, a child cannot afford to be without the key ingredient that helps assist in their growth. This is why DHA is important and recommended by doctors for babies and pregnant women
Where Can You Find DHA?
Thanks to the research on the importance of DHA, there are several different sources from which you can get it. For pregnant women, many prenatal vitamins (such as Prenate Mini) have some amount of DHA in each dose. However, DHA can also be found in foods such as eggs, milk, salmon, and canned tuna. However, as a pregnant woman you should avoid consuming too much fish as high levels of mercury can negatively affect your baby’s growth.
Some infant formulas, such as Enfamil, include DHA. If your child is old enough to drink milk and eat eggs, they too are receiving the benefits of DHA. If you decide to breastfeed, your baby will still be able to receive DHA as long as you continue to consume DHA yourself.
With these multiple sources of this fatty acid, it is not hard to make sure that DHA is a part of your everyday routine.
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| Many prenatal vitamins, such as these Prenate, include beneficial amounts of DHA. Source: nih.gov |
How Much DHA Is Necessary?
If you’re relying on dietary supplements such as fish oil or prenatal vitamins as your source of DHA, it is a little easier to tell if you are taking the right amount for receiving the benefits of DHA. Usually, the appropriate dosage is on the label, and this can help you monitor your DHA intake.
However, as with any other vitamin, be sure to speak with your doctor before you start any supplement for you or your child. In this conversation, also discuss the appropriate DHA dietary plan that will help with your child’s development.
