The Long Lost Nutrient:  DHA

            If you have never heard of DHA you are not alone.  DHA is basically a long chain derivative of omega-3 fatty acids.  Most people have heard of omega-3 fatty acids.  In fact, they are the new buzz word in nutritional literature and products.  So what is DHA, how does it differ from other omega-3 fatty acids, why do you need it, and are you getting enough, or any for that matter?

            Omega-3 fatty acids use to be prevalent in our diet; however our modern diet is now extremely deficient in these.  Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for many processes in the body, but two of their key roles are in metabolism and preventing inflammation in the body.  They are found in fish, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, purslane, hemp, chia seeds, flax, and animal products from grass-fed animals.  DHA is basically converted in the body from omega-3 fatty acids that we consume.  However, the process of converting omega-3 fatty acids into DHA in our body is extremely inefficient (about 20% in women and even less in men), mainly because of our high intake of another fatty acid called omega-6 fatty acids.  Omega-6 fatty acids are high in most vegetables oils, processed foods, and most grain-fed animal products.  

            Unlike shorter chain Omega-3s, DHA is really only found in certain fish, eggs from pastured chickens, and certain algae.  There is no current RDA or recommended dietary allowance for DHA but some experts recommend a daily intake of 650 mg of DHA plus EPA (another long chain derivative of omega-3) for normal healthy individuals and 900mg for people at risk for cardiovascular disease. 

            So why is DHA important?  DHA is basically our brain food.  DHA is also responsible for cardiovascular health, optimal metabolic functioning, and preventing cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's.