Enhanced Nutritional Properties of Breast Milk Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Understanding the Positive Impacts on Infants
In a series of studies, researchers have highlighted the significant role of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in the maturation of infant visual acuity and cognitive development. This essential nutrient, naturally found in breast milk, plays a crucial part in brain and vision development.
A study by Birch, Carlson, Hoffman, Fitzgerald-Gustafson, Fu, Drover, Castañeda, Minns, Wheaton, Mundy, Marunycz, and Diersen-Schade (2010) found that infants drinking DHA formula exhibited better visual acuity at 12 months compared to those on the normal formula. Similarly, infants receiving DHA-enriched formula showed improved cognitive outcomes[1][2].
The recommended daily intake for DHA for breastfeeding mothers is 200mg, with an additional 250mg of omega 3[3]. Breast milk naturally contains DHA, providing breastfed babies with a direct supply of this critical nutrient.
Scientific opinion suggests a higher dose of 550mg of DHA daily for healthy adults[6]. High-dose supplementation maintains the levels throughout the supplementation period, peaking at 18 weeks[4]. Interestingly, DHA levels return to baseline after supplementation has been stopped[6].
The benefits of DHA during breastfeeding for cognitive development in infants are well-documented. Studies have shown that DHA supplementation, particularly in the pre- and postnatal periods, can improve cognitive skills such as processing ability, attention, and overall IQ[5]. DHA has been linked to enhanced attention and processing abilities in infants, with evidence suggesting benefits in visual function and cognitive development[2][5].
Adequate DHA intake supports healthy brain development, which is critical during early life[5]. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) states that maternal intake of DHA contributes to the normal brain development and development of the eye of breastfed infants.
A study by Marangoni, Angeli, Colli, Eligini, Tremoli, Sirtori, and Galli (1994) investigated changes in N-3 and N-6 fatty-acids in humans after prolonged DHA administration. Lassek and Gaulin (2015) discovered that maternal milk DHA content predicts cognitive performance in a sample of 28 nations. Juber, Jackson, Johnson, Harris, and Baack (2017) found that breast milk DHA levels may increase after informing women about it in a community-based cohort study[7].
In conclusion, DHA supports cognitive development by improving attention, processing, and IQ, and it is essential for optimal brain development during infancy. Mothers can support these benefits by consuming DHA during breastfeeding or supplementing when needed[4][5].
[1] Birch, M. E., Carlson, S. E., Hoffman, J. R., Fitzgerald-Gustafson, K. M., Fu, Y., Drover, D. C., Castañeda, G., Minns, L. B., Wheaton, B. A., Mundy, D. L., Marunycz, K., & Diersen-Schade, D. L. (2010). Maturation of infant visual acuity as a function of the dietary level of docosahexaenoic acid. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 107(10), 4347-4352.
[2] Arterburn, L. M., Hall, K., & Oken, E. (2006). n−3 fatty acids in humans. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 83(5), 964S-971S.
[3] Lassek, W. D., & Gaulin, S. J. (2015). Diet, intelligence, and brain size: An evolutionary analysis and proposed mechanism. Evolutionary Psychology, 13(2), 228-247.
[4] Marangoni, A., Angeli, C., Colli, S., Eligini, E., Tremoli, E., Sirtori, C., & Galli, C. (1994). Changes in N-3 and N-6 fatty-acids in humans after prolonged DHA administration. Lipids, 29(1), 31-38.
[5] Makrides, M., Neumann, M. A., & Gibson, R. A. (1996). Effect of maternal DHA supplementation on breast milk composition: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. British Journal of Nutrition, 75(1), 15-23.
[6] Rafati, S., Hameed, M. A., Huang, D. D., & Isyaku, A. (2020). The effect of DHA supplementation on human health: A review. Nutrients, 12(6), 1548.
[7] Juber, D. L., Jackson, L. A., Johnson, L. K., Harris, M. A., & Baack, D. L. (2017). The influence of maternal education and information on breast milk DHA levels in a community-based cohort study. Journal of Human Lactation, 33(1), 75-81.
[8] Willatts, P. C., Forsyth, A. J., DiModugno, C., Varma, S., & Colvin, M. R. (1998). Effect of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in infant formula on problem solving at 10 months of age. Pediatric Research, 43(1), 40-45.
[9] Willatts, P. C., Forsyth, A. J., DiModugno, C., Varma, S., & Colvin, M. R. (1998). Effect of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in infant formula on problem solving at 10 months of age. Pediatric Research, 43(1), 40-45.
- The role of DHA in adult health is also significant, with scientific opinion suggesting a daily intake of 550mg for optimal benefits.
- Supplements containing DHA are available for adults who may not be getting enough through their diet, helping maintain desirable levels throughout the supplementation period.
- DHA supplements can provide support for various health and wellness aspects, including mental health, men's health, and even sexual health.
- For individuals suffering from chronic diseases like neurological disorders, DHA may offer potential therapies and treatments that could aid in their recovery.
- In the realm of fitness and exercise, DHA plays a part in improving cardiovascular health and aiding in muscle recovery.
- Skin care products often incorporate DHA for its potential benefits in maintaining healthy skin, particularly in the context of aging.
- Parents might consider DHA for family health, as it supports cognitive development in infants and children, and may impact teenagers' and young adults' brain function.
- Medicare policy may cover the cost of DHA supplements for individuals with specific medical conditions, such as patients with cognitive impairments or neurological disorders.
- Recent studies suggest that CBD interacts with DHA in the body, potentially enhancing the benefits of both nutrients for health, particularly in relation to neurological disorders.
- In addition to improving cognitive function, DHA has been associated with better sleep quality, which can promote overall health and well-being.
- Womens' health is another area where DHA can have a positive impact, as it supports nutritional needs during pregnancy, and could potentially impact hormonal balance, fertility and menopause.
