Fatty Acid
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Also known as: Docosahexaenoic acid, DHA omega-3, Docosahexaenoic
A long-chain omega-3 fatty acid critical for brain structure and function. DHA is the predominant structural fatty acid in the brain and retina.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Omega Superb | 92 A | $0.63 |
| 2 | Thorne Omega-3 with CoQ10 | 92 A | $0.61 |
| 3 | Thorne Super EPA | 92 A | $0.23 |
| 4 | Thorne Super EPA Pro | 92 A | $0.33 |
| 5 | Nootropics Depot Omega-3 Fish Oil Triple Strength Softgels | 91 A | $0.42 |
| 6 | Thorne Prenatal DHA | 89 A | $1.00 |
| 7 | Nootropics Depot AvailOM DHA Algae Capsules | 88 A | $0.75 |
| 8 | Thorne SynaQuell +™ | 88 A | $1.47 |
| 9 | Ritual Essential Prenatal | 88 A | $0.65 |
| 10 | Nootropics Depot AvailOm DHA Algae Powder | 87 A | $0.27 |
| 11 | Thorne Advanced DHA | 87 A | $1.00 |
| 12 | Complement Essential | 86 A- | $1.48 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) should I take?
The typical range is 250-1000 mg daily. Long-term supplementation recommended
When should I take DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)?
With fat-containing meal. Yes.
Which form of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is best?
Fish oil — Combined with EPA. Other forms in the catalog: Algal oil, Triglyceride form.
Is DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) safe?
Commonly reported: Fishy burps, GI upset. Serious warnings: Bleeding risk at very high doses. Safe
Which DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) supplement scores highest?
Thorne Omega Superb, at 92/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Daily target & upper limit
500 mg / dayDHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) dosage reference →Primary uses
- Brain health
- Cognitive function
- Eye health
- Fetal development
How it works
- Structural component of brain cell membranes
- Comprises 40% of polyunsaturated fatty acids in brain
- Essential for retinal function
- Supports neuroplasticity and neurotransmission
Dosage
- Typical range
- 250-1000 mg daily
- Timing
- With fat-containing meal
- With food
- Yes
- Duration
- Long-term supplementation recommended
- Special populations
- Pregnant women, infants need adequate DHA
Forms
- Fish oil
- Algal oil
- Triglyceride form
Safety
Common side effects
- Fishy burps
- GI upset
Contraindications
- Fish allergy for fish-derived
Products containing DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Essential for brain and eye health with extensive research
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) compared head-to-head
Related in Fatty Acid
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.