Tuna Oil-Enriched Toddler Formula Enhances DHA Status in Indonesian Toddlers.

ABSTRACT: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is essential for brain and cognitive development in toddlers; however, global intakes often fall below recommended levels. This study evaluated the bioavailability of DHA from commercial toddler formulas fortified with either microencapsulated high-DHA fish oil powder or high-DHA fish oil. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted in 120 healthy Indonesian toddlers aged 2-3 years. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: (A) dry-blended formula with microencapsulated high-DHA fish oil powder, (B) unfortified control formula, or (C) wet-mixed high-DHA fish oil formula. Bioavailability was assessed using both blood and fecal fatty acid levels. Both DHA-fortified formulas increased blood DHA levels, total omega-3 fatty acids, and the Omega-

SUBMITTER: Sunardi D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12412412 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature