Overview
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain, retinal, and cardiovascular function. It plays a critical role in neurodevelopment, particularly during fetal and infant growth, with higher maternal intake associated with improved perinatal outcomes and longer gestation [6][5]. DHA also contributes to the resolution of inflammation through specialized pro-resolving mediators, and combined supplementation with EPA has been shown to increase circulating levels of these beneficial lipid mediators, especially in individuals with low dietary fish intake [2]. While evidence for cardiovascular protection is mixed, higher doses of omega-3s (≥1 g/day) may reduce major adverse cardiovascular events, particularly in those with elevated baseline risk [4][3]. DHA is well tolerated in infants and adults, with dose-dependent increases in blood levels observed across multiple studies [1].
Dosage Guide
Recommended Daily Allowance
For generally healthy individuals
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Upper Intake Limit
Maximum safe daily intake
3000 mg— Combined EPA+DHA; upper limit set by FDA for supplemental omega-3s
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Vegan/vegetarian source, suitable for prenatal supplements
Higher bioavailability compared to ethyl ester form
Clinical Notes
- High doses of omega-3s may increase bleeding risk, especially when combined with anticoagulants
- Fish oil supplements may cause gastrointestinal side effects; taking with meals can improve tolerance
- Algal DHA is recommended for pregnant vegans to support fetal brain development
- Monitor for oxidation of supplements; choose products with antioxidants like vitamin E and store properly
Research
DHA doses of 40–120 mg/kg/day were well tolerated in preterm infants and increased blood DHA levels in a dose-dependent manner.
Supplementation with 380 mg/day DHA increased plasma DHA-derived lipid mediators of inflammation resolution, especially in adults with low fish intake.
Omega-3 supplementation shows modest benefit for cardiovascular prevention, with stronger effects seen in populations with low baseline intake.
Doses ≥1 g/day of omega-3 fatty acids (including DHA) were associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, particularly in high-risk populations.
Omega-3 LCPUFA supplementation during pregnancy improved perinatal outcomes and prolonged gestation.
Omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, showed potential cardiovascular benefits, though recent trials have yielded inconsistent results.
Supplementation with DHA and EPA (up to 1,800 mg/day) did not significantly improve cognitive performance in cognitively healthy older adults over 26 weeks.
Clinical trial data on DHA and EPA for cardiovascular disease prevention remain inconclusive, with benefits potentially limited to high-risk subgroups or specific formulations.
