Infants Need Omega-3 and AA Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Breastmilk is best for babies, no argument about that. However, if for some reason, you have to use infant formula, make sure it is fortified with DHA omega-3 and AA omega-6 to guarantee a correct eye and brain development, according to the latest recommendations published by international experts in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine. If you are nursing your child, then you must make sure there’s adequate amounts of these compounds in your diet by eating oily fish (rich in DHA) and meat, eggs and milk (rich in AA).

Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is a long-chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acid, or ‘good’ fat, found throughout the body. It is important for infant brain, eye and nervous system development and has been shown to support long-term heart health. It is important throughout pregnancy, but particularly in the third trimester when significant brain growth occurs.

Arachidonic acid, AA, is a long-chain omega-6 fatty acid, another ‘good’ fat. Like DHA, AA omega-6 is important for proper brain development in infants. It is also a precursor to a group of hormone-like substances called eicosanoids that play a role in immunity, blood clotting and other vital functions in the body.

Considering that there is major infant brain growth during pregnancy and throughout the first two years of life, infants have the greatest need for DHA omega-3 and AA omega-6 during this period.