What are the Benefits of DHA Fish Oil?

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that is most commonly found in fish and fish oil. Taking DHA fish oil is believed to have a number of health benefits for every member of the family from grandpa to the baby.

Pregnancy

According to the World Health Organization, taking DHA during pregnancy is recommended. Increased levels of DHA in the body during pregnancy are believed to help fetal brain development and nervous system function, skin growth and eye development.

Childhood Development

Giving your child DHA is believed to have the same benefits for the child as it does for the fetus. The World Health Organization says children taking DHA fish oil show signs of increased neurological development and often have better eye sight than their parents.

Cardiovascular Benefits

According to the American Heart Association, DHA was found to increase the amount of a good cholesterol in the blood stream. When it is given to patients who have had a heart attack or stroke, it may decrease the risk of another by keeping the blood vessels from closing back up.

Mental Health Benefits

Studies reported in the Journal of Neuroscience have shown that taking DHA fish oil may lower your chances of depression, especially in individuals who consume a low amount of omega-6 fatty acids. According to UCLA researchers, DHA also works as a deterrent against Alzheimer's.

Inflammation

One government study found that DHA decreases inflammation in the body by suppressing an enzyme that causes it. For this reason, individuals with inflammatory problems may benefit from taking DHA fish oil.

Blood Clotting

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, taking DHA fish oil has shown to thin the blood, an especially helpful benefit for those with heart problems. DHA also has a positive effect on red blood cells which seems to decrease the risk of blood clots.