Functional behavior of DHA and EPA in the formation of babies brain at different stages of age, and protect from different brain-related diseases

Abstract

Omega-3 fatty acids are rich in marine animals and plant-based foods like grains and seeds. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are directly present in different fish types, whereas they are indirectly available in various seeds and grains. Plants seeds and grains contain omega 3-fatty acids in the form of ALA that is converted into EPA and DHA with the help of specific enzymes. DHA and EPA play an important role in developing brain and nerve cells. Several studies confirmed that children need these fatty acids at all stages, including pre-birth and after-birth. During pregnancy and lactation, the fetus fulfills its requirements by the mother’s diet. During childhood, DHA and EPA demands are fulfilled from different food sources. Different Clinical studies suggested that n-3 fatty acids supplementation during pregnancy, lactation and infants may play an important role in brain development, including neurodevelopment, nervous tissue, optimal visual and neuronal signaling. Animal and cell studies showed that DHA is a vital fatty acid with brain function for neuronal cell growth. Pharmacologically, these omega 3 fatty acids improve mental health and reduce the risk of brain-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, depressive symptoms, epilepsy, schizophrenia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease and autism spectrum disorders. This review described the importance of fatty acids including EPA and DHA in supporting the optimum growth and development of brain. The conclusive statement, DHA and EPA are vital functional materials for forming babies’ brain at different age periods.

Keywords

• DHA
• EPA
• ALA
• Children brain development
• Brain disorders