ARA & DHA

DHA and ARA have very important roles for the growing infant including optimal development of the nervous system, especially the brain and eyes. DHA and ARA are rapidly accumulated in the nervous tissue of brain and retina, which takes place primarily from the last trimester of pregnancy to up to 2 years of age. While the omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids can be converted to DHA and ARA by humans, evidence exists that suggests that this process is insufficient to achieve optimal accumulation of DHA and ARA in infants and a dietary source is required to meet demand.

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Breastfeeding has long been associated with cognitive and visual advantages for the infant. Breast milk is a natural source of DHA and ARA. Trials conducted on infants show that diets containing DHA and ARA may have beneficial effects on their visual and cognitive development. The benefits of DHA and ARA appear greatest when present in combination.