CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH What is DHA? DHA is the scientific abbreviation for Docosahexaenoic Acid. It's an Omega-3 fatty acid, and an important building block for our brains and eyes. Before babies are born they depend on their mothers for DHA. Many international health organizations-including the World Health Organization-recommend increased intakes of DHA. Unfortunately, the U.S. diet still has one of the lowest levels in the world. Doctors and health experts recommend 300 mg of DHA daily for pregnant and breast-feeding women. Why DHA for heart health? DHA is a key component in every cell in our body. It is important for your heart. Americans have one of the lowest intakes in the world because we eat so little cold-water fish like salmon, a good source of this nutrient. DHA can benefit cardiovascular health in three ways: 1.) Helps sustain normal function-DHA is preferentially accumulated into the heart membrane and can therefore help stabilize the heart and maintain its ability to respond to changes in rhythm. 2.) Promotes a healthy blood lipid profile-Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that, when elevated (>150mg/dl), may be a risk factor for coronary heart disease. DHA is extremely effective at maintaining normal triglyceride levels. 3.) Supports normal blood flow-platelets are a key part of normal blood function, however, they are also involved in the development of plaques and clots that can lead to reduced blood flow. DHA inhibits the narrowing of blood vessels caused by plaques and clots. What are the health benefits of DHA? Supports a healthy heart Vital for infant brain and eye development Promotes a healthy pregnancy Related Links