Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid that reduces the incidence and severity of a number of diseases. The (n-3) fatty acids are essential dietary nutrients, and one of their important roles is providing docosahexaenoic acid. DHA helps in growth and function of nervous tissue. Reduced DHA is associated with impairment in cognitive and behavioral performance, effects which are particularly important during brain development. Recently, a novel series of DHA-derived lipid mediators with potent protective actions have been identified. In the present review, we demonstrate the dietary amplification of these DHA-derived products and their role in protection of different disorders such as Alzheimer�s disease, mood disorders, cardiac complications as well as maintainence of pregnancy and vision. In vitro supplementation of hepatocytes with DHA significantly reduces hydrogen peroxide-induced damage, evaluated by the \"comet assay,\" and oxidative stress Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid, determined by measurement of malondialdehyde levels. Some of the commonly used dietary sources of DHA are Pink salmon filet, baked or broiled Pink salmon, White (albacore) tuna, Blue crab etc. It is also found in some herbal sources such as hemp, flax, sunflower and sesame as well as in nuts.
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