We all know DHA is really good for babies brain development. But what is DHA? Docosahexaenioc Acid (say that 3 x fast!) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid found throughout the body, especially in the brain and eyes. *note: don't get confused with another omega-3 called ALA found in walnuts, flaxseed, and canola oil. Its good but not as good as DHA.

Why is DHA so good for growing fetuses and babies? Beginning the last trimester of pregnancy to the first 2 years of age DHA levels in the brain rapidly increase. Several studies have shown infants with higher blood levels of DHA score better on tests measuring their brain (or cognitive) and visual function. Basically makes babies smarter and have x-ray vision! Ok, maybe not x-ray but it makes it better.

Good sources of DHA: -Fatty fish (aka salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, and tuna) 2 servings of fatty fish a week is recommended *1 serving = 4 oz

Don't like fish? Well you can take a DHA supplement, usually in the form of fish oil or algal oil. (You want about 200 mg of DHA/day)

*Caution* Pregnant and breastfeeding women should NOT eat swordfish, tilefish, king mackeral and shark. Also tuna should be limited to 6 oz per week.

So make sure you add a little fish into your diet. Its good for you too! Makes your heart healthy by lowering triglycerides (fat) in the blood, heart rate, and blood pressure.

And may I also suggest that Trader Joe's has excellent wild salmon in their frozen section at a good price. Just marinate that baby (salmon) in the fridge with soy sauce, olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, fresh pressed garlic, and a little brown sugar, for about 1 hr then bake in the oven (covered with foil) or BBQ 400 degrees for 20 min. Add a little brown rice and edamame and voila! Magnifique!! Cheers! ~Steph