Workshop on DHA as a required nutrient: overview.

Early recognition of the importance of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in brain, neural, and visual development, prompted professional bodies to establish dietary recommendations for pregnant women and term and preterm infants. More recent studies show that supplemental DHA can play an important role in reducing the risk for certain age-related diseases. Data from nationwide surveys suggest that the average intake of DHA by US adults is considerably lower than levels suggested by researchers to sustain baseline nutritional status and to achieve the beneficial and protective effects of DHA. The Workshop on DHA as a Required Nutrient provided a forum for scientists to present and debate the research in support of more universal dietary recommendations for DHA as an essential nutrient throughout life.