Baseline Red Blood Cell and Breast Milk DHA Levels Affect Responses to Standard Dose of DHA in Lactating Women on a Controlled Feeding Diet

The importance of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in human development is well-documented [1-3]. Both the brain and retina are exceptionally rich in DHA, where it is an integral part of their respective tissue structures. As such, a significant amount of DHA is provided to the fetus/infant from the third trimester through the first 18 months of life via several mechanisms [4]. While there is evidence that the fetus can elongate precursor fatty acids to make DHA [5], the amount of DHA available to the fetus is primarily determined by the amount in maternal circulation during pregnancy and the functionality of the placenta [6].
Source: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids - Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Source Type: research