Formula supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA): a critical review of the research.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating growth, cognitive, neurological, and visual development of term infants supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA).


METHODS
The Boyack and Lookinland Methodological Quality Index (MQI) was used to evaluate data from RCTs identified from multiple data bases.


RESULTS
Six of ten studies found the addition of DHA and ARA to have no significant effect on infant development.


CONCLUSIONS
More expensive formula with endogenous DHA and ARA is not necessary. Results from longer studies currently underway will be beneficial.
Wright
Kristen
K
Brigham Young University-Nursing, Provo, UT, USA.
Coverston
Catherine
C
Tiedeman
Mary
M
Abegglen
Jo Ann
JA
D016718:Arachidonic Acid; D002657:Child Development; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids; D006128:Growth; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D041943:Infant Formula; D007227:Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids; D016718:Arachidonic Acid