What is DHA?
· Dihydroxyacetone is derived from a vegetable source, most likely sugar beets. SomeGerman scientists in the 1920’s were experimenting with DHA [it’s used in the X-rayprocess] and noticed that it turned the skin brown. In the 1970’s the Food and Drug Administration added DHA to their list of approved cosmetic ingredients. Then, sometime in the 1980’s, the cosmetic companies found a way to produce better results [browner, less orange] with DHA. The secret: better refining processes now produce higher quality, more predictable DHA.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is a natural Omega-3 fatty acid essential in the development of the brain, vision and nervous system of young mammals. Healthy brains are about 60 percent structural fat, and DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain. Dietary DHA is critical for optimal neural development in puppies because DHA synthesis in the body is limited. Prior to weaning, puppies get DHA from their mothers. Mothers, both human and canine, transfer DHA from their body tissues to their offspring during pregnancy and lactation. After weaning, puppies can obtain DHA for continuing neural development through the diet in cold water fatty fish and fish meals. This is the highest guaranteed amount found in the market.
DHA is an omega-3 long-chain fatty acid that is the primary building block of the brain and retina. The brain is 60% fat, and DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain, comprising 25% – 35%. DHA is found in even greater concentrations, 50% -60% in the retina. DHA is critical for infant development, especially the rapid cerebral and eye development that occurs during pregnancy and the first few months after birth. It is an important nutrient for pregnant women and nursing mothers. DHA also has been associated with optimal memory function, visual acuity, and a positive mental state. It is an integral component of all membranes with electrical activity, including brain and nerve cells.
