Saturday, October 1, 2011

The Controversy on DHA along with ARA as Components in Infant Formula

By Areli D. Henzel


DHA and ARA are components fortified to milk, resembling the fatty acid composition of natural breast milk. DHA are from fermented algae and ARA from fungus. There is a lot of conflict regarding these additives. There are questions whether these nutrients really provide the nutrition claimed by infant formula producers or if in fact they are dangerous for young infants. Some doctors claim that they are good while others are not.

Regarding the source of the supplements, it is ludicrous to claim any form of accuracy. The fatty acid content in each supplement is not usually consumed by a developing baby. With the knowledge of the synergistic mechanism that nutrients in a diet, adding new fatty acids that are not usually present may produce questionable nutritional results. I am not saying that the results will be negative or positive. But I am sure there is plenty of research data from the formula producers stating its advantages.

The developing human body undergoes an elegant progression. Effects from diet may be subtle or obvious. The vast raw materials needed for the chemistry to be effective and efficient to propagate life have already been tested in the case of evolution.

Modern concept however enabled us to develop items that mimic natural items. This is sometimes to our advantage and sometimes to our down fall. Scientific studies have shown potentially harmful side effects. While some studies shown no side effects. In fact, there are studies that show benefits to a child's visual function and cognitive and behavioral development with these controversial nutrients.

The FDA already approved the use of these supplements. They recommend that formula producers engage in research in order to study long term exposure benefits or risks. But who wants to participate in ongoing research regarding a questionable diet product especially involving their child?

The attention in the consumer market of this type of questionable item is really of paramount importance. However, education of the consumer may be a difficult task when science, which might be blurred, is the fulcrum on which to balance our decisions.




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