Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in cold water fatty fish. Vegetarian sources of DHA can be found in seaweed and algae. DHA is essential for the proper functioning of our brains as adults, and for the development of our nervous system and visual abilities during the first 6 months of life. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are part of a healthy diet that can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Our bodies naturally produce small amounts of DHA, but the beneficial amounts we need must come from food or dietary supplements. Research has shown many individuals with western diets are deficient in DHA since fish is not a popular menu item. Western diets contain too much Omega-6's, but little omega-3's. Traditionally, vegans and individuals looking for a full spectrum omega 3 ,6, & 9 would lean towards flax as their "go to" oil. Although a form of Omega-3, flax oil contains Alpha-Linoleic Acid (ALA), and is inferior to true Omega-3 since it must be converted by the body enzymatically to be useful. Fish contain Omega-3 in the forms of EPA and DHA, which are already in the correct bio-available forms to be absorbed by the body. Aside from the vegetarian and vegan viewpoint, there are generally growing concerns over the safety of fish and fish oil supplements, due to the presence of heavy metals and other toxins. Fish unfortunately live in growingly polluted waters and build up dangerous levels of toxic substances, hence medical experts advising caution on how much fish is consumed. Some fish oil supplements have been removed from retail shelves in recent years due to safety fears and rancidity issues. The solution to these problems is quit simple. Fish don't produce omega-3 fatty acids, they accrue meaningful levels due to their algae-rich diets. In the past 10-15 years, major research has taken place into growing specific microalgae strains in order to extract and purify omega-3 fatty acids. Martek is a pioneer in this technology and transformed the nutritional opportunities for vegetarians and vegans. Pure Vegan contains Lifes DHA, manufactured by Martek who is the pioneer in vegan based DHA. Since Pure Vegan DHA is from an algae source, common side effects such as fish burps and rancidity are not experienced.
Just a few benefits of DHA
Heart Disease
DHA appears to have positive effects on existing heart disease. It also may lower the risk for developing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil help lower triglycerides (fats in the blood), lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of blood clots, improve the health of arteries, and reduce the amount of arterial plaque (which narrows arteries and causes heart disease).
Infant Development
DHA plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the central nervous system as well as visual functioning in infants.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Several small studies indicate that DHA may help reduce symptoms and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it does not stop the progression of the disease.
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