Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) belongs to the class of nutrients called essential fatty acids, especially essential for brain and eye functions. It is an omega-3 long chain fatty acid, present in the gray matter of the brain and retina of the eye. Sixty percent of the brain is fat, and DHA is the most abundant fat in both the brain and retina of the eye. Cells in the brain, retina, and other parts of the nervous system have connecting arms on their membranes that transport electrical currents between cells, sending messages to the body. DHA assures the optimal flexibility of nerve cell membranes essential for the transmission of these signals.

High triglycerides (TGs). Abnormal visual and neurological (nervous system) development in infants.

Memory loss. Visual and other neurological conditions. Certain genetic disorders.  Pregnancy complications.

Recommended usage for adults has been based on 1–3 grams per day of DHA from fish oil. However, higher levels of intake for short duration have been recorded without any side effects when micro-algae, fish's original source of this nutrient, are used. A pediatrician should determine the level of DHA given to premature infants, who are not breastfed.

Cold-water fish, such as mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, black cod, anchovies, and albacore tuna, are rich sources of DHA. Similarly, cod liver oil contains large amounts of DHA. Humans obtain DHA from their diets, initially through the placenta, then from breast milk, and later through dietary sources, such as fish, red meats, animal organ meats and eggs. In recent years, scientists have developed techniques to extract DHA from micro-algae. This sea vegetable oil form closely matches the DHA that is found in human breast milk.

Elevations in blood sugar have sometimes been reported. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or which is especially bothersome.

Acute Overdose: None Chronic Overdose: None

Nutritionally oriented doctors often recommend that people who supplement with fish oil or DHA take vitamin E supplements to protect Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA within the body from oxidative damage  Certain medications interact in a positive and/or negative way with DHA While those with heart disease and diabetes often benefit from fish oil, such individuals should check with their nutritionally oriented doctor before taking more than 3 or 4 grams of fish oil for several months While DHA combined with EPA from fish oil consistently lowers triglycerides, it occasionally increases LDL cholesterol