DHA, full name docosahexaenoic acid, is an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid, which is mainly ingested through food and has a wide range of roles as follows:
Promote brain and nerve development: DHA is an important component of the brain’s nervous system and visual cells, which can promote the growth and connection of neurons in the brain, maintain the normal physiological activities of nerve cells, and promote the synthesis of nerve cell proteins, thus contributing to the growth and development of brain cells, enhancing the vitality of brain cells, and improving intelligence. In addition, DHA also helps to improve people’s concentration and learning ability, and has a significant effect on the intellectual development of infants and young children, as well as the improvement of memory in adults.
Protect vision: DHA plays a key role in the maturation process of retinal photoreceptor cells, which are an important part of the retina. Adequate intake of DHA can help maintain the normal structure and function of the retina and prevent vision loss, especially for the maintenance of the normal function of the retinitis pigmentosa, which can relieve visual fatigue and enhance the level of dark vision.
Maintenance of cardiovascular health: DHA has a certain hypolipidemic effect, can increase the excretion of cholesterol, inhibit its endogenous synthesis, and thus reduce serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, which helps to prevent atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Meanwhile, DHA can also improve blood circulation by inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Enhancement of physical fitness and immune regulation: Proper supplementation of DHA can enhance physical fitness and stimulate the activity of immune cells to enhance the function of the immune system, thereby reducing the risk of disease.
Anti-aging and anti-inflammatory: DHA has a certain antioxidant effect, which helps to delay skin aging. In addition, DHA also has anti-inflammatory effects, moderate supplementation can reduce the body’s inflammatory response.
Improvement of mood: DHA helps to promote the synthesis and release of neurotransmitters, so it has a positive effect on improving mood.