DHA and ARA: What Are They and What's the Difference?

As a parent, you want the best for your child, including their nutrition. When it comes to infant formula, you may have come across the terms DHA and ARA. But what exactly are they, and what's the difference between the two?

DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, and ARA, or arachidonic acid, are both types of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, respectively. They are essential nutrients for a baby's growth and development, particularly for their brain and eyes.

DHA is found in breast milk and is important for the development of a baby's central nervous system, including their brain and eyes. In fact, it is estimated that up to 60% of the human brain is made up of fat, with DHA being a critical component. DHA also plays a role in the immune system and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

ARA, on the other hand, is found in breast milk and is important for the development of a baby's immune system and other body tissues, including the brain and eyes. It is also involved in the production of certain hormones in the body.

While breast milk is the best source of DHA and ARA, infant formula manufacturers have been adding them to their products for years. The amount of DHA and ARA in infant formula is typically lower than that in breast milk, but it is still important for babies who are not breastfed.

So, what's the difference between DHA and ARA in infant formula? The main difference is their roles in the body. DHA is primarily involved in the development of the brain and eyes, while ARA is involved in the development of the immune system and other body tissues.

Infant formula manufacturers use different sources of DHA and ARA, including algae, fungus, and egg yolks. The most commonly used source of DHA and ARA in infant formula is algae oil, which is a vegetarian and sustainable source of these essential fatty acids.

In conclusion, DHA and ARA are essential nutrients for a baby's growth and development, particularly for their brain and eyes (DHA) and immune system and other body tissues (ARA). While breast milk is the best source of DHA and ARA, infant formula manufacturers add them to their products to ensure that babies who are not breastfed still receive these important nutrients.