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DHA and ARA are all the rage among the formula industry. Ever since the link between DHA and ARA and brain and eye development, formula companies have been pushing their lab oils to the public. And the fashion has continued despite the growing concern over the design process and health risks. These days it’s hard to find an option that doesn’t have those features. Because of this, some companies are adding omega 3 and 6 oils to their list. So what’s the big deal with these long-lasting oils? And what is the difference between DHA and ARA and Omega 3 and 6 in the formula?
What are DHA and ARA?
DHA and ARA are chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the omega 3 and 6 families. DHA and ARA are found in the brain, nervous system, eyes and cardiovascular system. It is considered to be a major part of the health and development of those areas of the body.
Where Do Babies Get DHA and ARA?
DHA and ARA are part of breast milk. Although DHA and ARA begin to accumulate in the infant’s body before birth, the nutrient is stored after birth through the mother’s milk. As a child grows and begins to eat solid foods, DHA and ARA are produced in the body from Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids consumed in food. Foods rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids include fish, fish oil, eggs, nuts, flaxseed, canola oil, and other vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables.
Where Do DHA and ARA in Formula Come From?
DHA and ARA products are made in the lab. These labs harvest DHA and ARA from lab fermented microscopic algae (DHA) and soil fungi (ARA). In order to extract DHA and ARA from the microorganisms, they are soaked in Hexane and then the oil is removed from the solution.
What is hexane?
Hexane is a solvent, produced by oil refineries. It is a toxic substance that has been shown to interfere with the nervous system and cognitive function and brain development. It has also been linked to stomach problems.
What Are the Problems with DHA and ARA in Infants?
Lab made DHA and ARA are known to cause problems in babies. The most common side effects of DHA and ARA supplements in baby food are gastrointestinal symptoms that include diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, upset stomach, and rashes. The fungi and algae used in the commercial production of DHA and ARA are not found in the human diet. There is also a significant difference between the oils obtained from algae and fungi and those found in breast milk. Add to this the fact that there is no scientific evidence that lab-made DHA and ARA affect brain or eye development or health and there is no real problem with including it in infant formula.
What about Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids?
Companies like HiPP are adding Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to their formulas as an answer to the lab-made DHA and ARA found in other forms. HiPP uses fish oil and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. These are the same supplements that many adults take for heart health. They do not use chemicals like hexane anywhere in their formulas. These sources of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are very safe and have not been shown to cause problems in most babies (except for babies who are allergic to fish or eggs).
Even among baby products in the United States, it’s hard to find a formula that doesn’t have lab-made DHA and ARA in it. Formula companies often charge between 15 and 30% more for formulas with DHA and ARA in them. They are making huge profits from questionable drugs that can harm a child’s pregnancy, while playing into the parents’ desire for a healthy child. Fortunately, there are other ways to solve these problems. If you are concerned about your child getting enough Omega fats, HiPP is a good choice. We at MyOrganicFormula.com carry several European brands, including Holle, Lebenswert, and Loulouka that have recently added DHA in compliance with European Union guidelines.