DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)What is DHA?
Updated 9 Nov 2026
Short answer
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fat. It is part of the membranes of cells and is especially high in the retina, the brain and sperm.[1] Microalgae make DHA, and fish collect it through the food chain.[1]
Fatty fish are the richest foods: 3 ounces (about 85 g) of cooked farmed Atlantic salmon has 1.24 g of DHA.[1] Supplements that contain DHA include fish oil, krill oil, cod liver oil and algal oil, the vegetarian source.[1][2] Most infant formulas sold in the US have DHA added.[1]
Sources (2)
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.gov
- Omega-3 Supplements: What You Need To Know. NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2024. www.nccih.nih.gov
More about dha (docosahexaenoic acid)
Does DHA lower inflammation?How much DHA is recommended in pregnancy?What is the difference between DHA and EPA?What is DHA used for?Can the body make its own DHA?Which foods are high in DHA?For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.