A new study shows that infants receiving formula supplemented with the omega-3 fat DHA performed better on a cognitive test than infants who were given formula without it. DHA occurs naturally in breast milk.
While doctors say the evidence may support formula containing a DHA supplement over formula without one, they are concerned that the study may be a first step toward marketing a replacement for breast milk. The formula used in the study was provided to the researchers by a manufacturing company for free.
One pediatrician, Dr. Lori Feldman-Winter, notes that in her own practice, some mothers are convinced that formula with DHA can be superior to breast milk. "The marketing has actually dissuaded mothers from choosing exclusive breast-feeding, which is preferred from all the outcomes that we understand." said Feldman-Winter. She noted that simply adding DHA -- while it may top other infant formula -- would not make it superior to breast milk.