Role of DHA, ARA, & phospholipids in brain development: An Indian perspective

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid play vital roles in brain development during infancy. In India, LCPUFA intake during pregnancy is substantially low, mostly attributed to poor dietary intake. Infants are likely to have similar trend considering low intake of DHA in lactating mothers as well as low/absent DHA in bovine milk and standard infant formulae. Studies on maternal intake of DHA during pregnancy and lactation are in favor of routing supplementation. Though studies on benefits of DHA and ARA supplemented infant formulas have shown heterogeneous results, the latest long term studies showing better cognitive skills.