Doctors have known for some time that children who were breast-fed as babies display better cognitive development than babies raised on infant formula, and it was long believed that the essential fatty acid, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), found in the mother’s milk, was at the root of this advantage. Now, a new study supports the notion that infant formula supplemented with DHA results in children who possess higher cognitive abilities than babies fed regular formula, thus mimicking the benefits of breast feeding.

The data, published in the journal, Child Development, examines the potential role that DHA might have on a child’s learning capacity and highlights the importance early nutrition. Researchers had previously looked at the possible role of DHA in development, but the current findings employed more sensitive measuring techniques as well as higher levels of DHA.

In the study in question, 229 infants were given either traditional formula or one supplemented with DHA, at three different time points after birth. Tests were then administered after 9 months to measure their problem solving abilities. What the researchers observed was that the babies who were fed formula enriched with DHA were more likely to succeed in the given task and displayed greater determination in accomplishing the task at hand.

Interestingly, doctors have found that infants who perform well on these “means-end problem solving tasks” often grow up to exhibit superior IQ and vocabulary skills as older children. In light of this, the benefits of DHA might extend well past infancy. However, as it stands today, there is still no clear consensus concerning the possible benefits of DHA, and further research still needs to be done before any conclusions can be drawn.

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is most abundant in the brain and retina. Our bodies can make DHA in small quantities, but only if the proper fatty acids are consumed. Consequently, experts feel that it is best obtained through the foods we eat, especially fish. Babies obtain DHA from their mother’s breast milk, which is greatly affected by the mother’s diet.

DHA is like other antioxidants in that it is believe to play a role in reducing or preventing a whole host of diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and cancer. It is also believed to improve the mental development of babies. It is for this reason that DHA is actively promoted as a supplement in baby formula.

The debate over breast feeding vs. formula feeding is an important one, with pros and cons for each approach in regards to convenience, cost, and personal preference. When it comes to the health and welfare of your baby, however, most experts lean to breast feeding as the ideal way to feed your newborn.

If you have any questions or concerns, speak to you doctor. For more information, check out the websites for the American Pregnancy Association and La Leche League.