Docosahexaeonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are essential fatty acids that are often known as EPA DHA. They are the active components of Omega 3 fats that are commonly found in cold water fish.
Many know that Omega 3's are very beneficial for our body especially for the heart, joints and brains. Although both these fats are active ingredients of fish oil, each of them have different functions.
We often associate DHA with infant's formula. Many scientists believe that the building blocks of the brain are from this fat. It is about 8% of the brain by weight. Expecting mothers are advised to make sure that have adequate supply of Docosahexaeonic acid so that it can help in the development of the brain of the baby in their womb. It is also needed for the support and growth of the brain especially in the first two years of life.
EPA on the other hand is found out to be the most important nutrient for the functioning of the brain and the stimulation of the nerves. It is used for the treatment of depression and schizophrenia. It is this active ingredient that seems to have a hard time functioning without DHA as it is proven to be less potent or effective without its partner.
EPA DHA is also a good source of energy. It helps in the insulation of the body against heat loss. In fact, These two fatty acids were first observed by Danish researchers who studied Eskimos that ate a lot of fatty fish. They found out that even if you ate a lot of fatty fish, there was still a low rate of heart disease and arthritis.
Further studies were done through the years because of the possible health benefits of these fats, almost all have reached the same conclusion that EPA DHA or Omega 3's are a healthy type of fat.