Preformed DHA Best for Raising Blood DHA Levels

TIVERTON, Devon—Preformed DHA supplementation is the most effective way to increase blood DHA levels, according to a recent statement from the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids (ISSFAL). The statement, published in the February-March 2009 issue of Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, notes that dietary supplements of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) “have little effect on blood or breast milk DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) levels, whereas consumption of preformed DHA is effective in raising blood DHA levels. Addition of ALA to the diets of formula-fed infants does raise DHA, but no level of ALA tested raises DHA to levels achievable with preformed DHA at intakes similar to typical human milk DHA supply. With no other changes in diet, improvement of blood DHA status can be achieved with dietary supplements of preformed DHA, but not with supplementation of ALA, EPA, or other precursors.”

Martek Biosciences Corporation, a manufacturer of DHA omega-3 products, responded to the ISSFAL statement: "Martek applauds ISSFAL for advising consumers and healthcare professionals that there is no substitute for obtaining preformed DHA in the diet,” said Martek Medical Director, Edward B.Nelson, MD, FACP. “Unfortunately, the average Western diet does not contain healthy levels of DHA, even as the body of research supporting the health benefits of DHA for brain, eye and heart health throughout the lifecycle continues to grow. Sources of DHA include algal oils, certain species of fatty fish and fish oils, DHA supplements, and foods fortified with DHA such as milks, juices, eggs, yogurts, cheeses, breads and other food and beverage products. This statement will go a long way toward ending the confusion about the best sources of DHA."