What is omega-3 DHA and why is it important for brain development?

What is omega-3 DHA and why is it important for brain development?

Author: Annenberg Center for Health Sciences April 26, 2023 Duration: 1:00

Professor of psychology, John A. Colombo, PhD, who is affiliated with child language, clinical child psychology, and neuroscience doctoral programs, explains the importance of omega-3 DHA on brain development. Dr. Colombo reviews DHA studies and how outcomes are related to cognitive function, as well as how DHA relates to longer-term cognitive outcomes. Dr. Colombo describes advanced cognitive tests that target cognition in school-aged children, and how early exposure to DHA impacts later neurocognition.

  • Impact of omega-3 DHA on early brain development
  • Impact of early DHA exposure on long-term neurocognition
  • Review of advanced cognitive tests



How does what we eat in our earliest years shape the way we think and learn? Clinical Pearls: The Interplay of Nutrition, Brain Development, and Cognition explores this critical connection, bringing expert insights directly to clinicians and curious minds alike. Produced by the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences, this podcast features conversations with leading researchers who break down complex science into practical understanding. You'll hear Dr. John Colombo address foundational questions on infant cognition and brain development, while Dr. Fayez K. Ghishan delves into the specifics of components like Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM). Further episodes with Dr. Sean C.L. Deoni examine the role of nutrients such as Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), explaining how these elements support neurological growth. Each discussion is designed to translate cutting-edge research into clear, actionable knowledge, focusing on the tangible links between dietary factors and cognitive outcomes. Tune in for a thoughtful series that moves beyond theory to examine the real-world implications of nutritional science on the developing mind.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 10

Clinical Pearls: The Interplay of Nutrition, Brain Development, and Cognition
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