DHA is beneficial for brain and visual development, making it a good health supplement for pregnant women and infants. Therefore, various DHA-containing nutritional products have appeared on the market. However, nutrition experts have expressed that excessive intake of DHA is detrimental to health. So, what are the specific side effects of DHA?
Does DHA have side effects?
Nutritional intake should be balanced. When the body is not lacking in DHA, supplementing with DHA is not only ineffective but also disrupts the nutritional balance needed by the body, leading to side effects such as lowered immune function and lipid peroxidation. However, infants, pregnant women, and the elderly, under the guidance of a nutritionist, can benefit from appropriate DHA intake and need not worry excessively.
Excessive DHA intake leads to lipid peroxidation
Although DHA contributes to brain and visual development, it is an unsaturated fatty acid. Excessive intake can cause lipid peroxidation, leading to cellular transparency disorders, fibrosis, and even damage to nerves, arteries, and organs. Therefore, DHA should not be overconsumed, and it is best to take it under the guidance of a nutritionist.
Excessive DHA intake affects immune and hematopoietic functions
Excessive DHA intake in infants can cause digestive and absorption burdens and lower immune function. At the same time, excessive DHA intake can also have adverse effects on the hematopoietic system of infants, affecting the formation and function of platelets to some extent.
Not suitable for certain individuals, may cause discomfort
In addition, due to DHA's ability to inhibit platelet aggregation and anti-thrombus formation, individuals with bleeding disorders, liver cirrhosis, or coagulation disorders should control their intake of DHA appropriately to prevent bleeding or worsen bleeding. Therefore, when supplementing with DHA, it is necessary to take an appropriate amount based on individual circumstances.
