DHA EPA ARA: Essential Fatty Acids for Infant Development

DHA, EPA & ARA — Essential Fatty Acids

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Arachidonic acid (ARA) are important fatty acids that play a key role in early growth and development. They are especially vital for the healthy formation of the brain and eyes.

What makes DHA, EPA & ARA in Little Étoile different?

Rich in DHA — supports healthy brain and eye development.
Additional source of EPA — contributes to cognitive function, with reseach showing benefit for ADHD.
Premium source of ARA — important for brain, eye, and immune function.

How do they work?

DHA and EPA are essential omega-3 fats that infants and toddlers need for healthy brain and eye development. They help build and protect the delicate membranes of the retina and the brain’s developing nerve pathways, supporting processes like synapse formation and myelination, which ultimately effects lifelong brain function.

ARA, an essential omega-6 fat, works alongside DHA and EPA, as they accumulate in the brain after birth and throughout the first 1–2 years of life.

Together, DHA, EPA, and ARA also support the immune system and the growth of new cells and tissues across the body. These fatty acids form part of every cell membrane, helping tissues hold together, and are key components of blood cells — from red cells that carry oxygen, to white cells that defend against illness.

What does the research say?

Breast milk naturally contains DHA, EPA, and ARA — the key fatty acids needed for early growth and development. Babies begin building stores of DHA, EPA, and ARA before birth (through the placenta) and continue to receive them through breast milk in the first two years of life.

Global studies show average breast milk levels of about 0.32% DHA and 0.43% ARA (as a percentage of total fatty acids)【2】. DHA levels are highest in the early weeks of life and gradually decrease as breastfeeding reduces【3】.

Both DHA and EPA are important together — not just DHA alone — because they work in tandem to cross the placenta and remain active in the infant’s body【4】.

DHA, Brain Function and IQ
Research has linked DHA and ARA intake with improved visual acuity and cognitive function【5】. In one study, formulas containing 0.36% DHA with ARA were associated with better vocabulary and verbal IQ by age 5【6】, highlighting the importance of DHA and ARA intake in infancy and early childhood.

EPA and ADHD
Deficiency in EPA has been associated with attention deficit symptoms. Studies have shown that children with ADHD often present with lower blood levels of omega-3s, particularly EPA [7]. Supplementation with EPA-rich formulations has produced promising results, as EPA plays an important role in supporting brain function.