Human milk omega-3 PUFA and infant neurodevelopment: Evidence and insights from indian mothers

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) and arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n-6) are important long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids involved in fetal and infant brain development, synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and neuronal membrane function. DHA accretion is highest from the third trimester of pregnancy through the first two years of life, representing a critical period for neurodevelopment.

This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the role of maternal DHA in infant neurodevelopment, with particular emphasis on Indian populations, including maternal dietary intake, maternal-fetal transfer, human milk composition, pregnancy outcomes, and supplementation studies.

Relevant pre-clinical and clinical studies were identified through searches of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and related databases. Studies addressing maternal dietary patterns, fatty acid composition in maternal blood and human milk, placental transfer, and infant neurodevelopmental outcomes were reviewed, with special focus on evidence from India.

Available evidence indicates that maternal omega-3 fatty acid intake and human milk DHA concentrations in Indian populations are generally lower than those reported in many Western populations, likely due to limited seafood consumption and higher intake of omega-6-rich vegetable oils. Maternal DHA supplementation has been shown to improve maternal DHA status; however, evidence regarding benefits on infant neurodevelopmental outcomes remains inconsistent. Experimental studies also suggest potential interactions of DHA with other nutrients, including vitamin B12 and folate, which may influence neurodevelopment.

Suboptimal maternal DHA intake and imbalanced dietary n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratios may contribute to lower maternal and human milk DHA status in Indian populations. Further well-designed studies are required to clarify the effects of maternal DHA supplementation on infant neurodevelopment and to evaluate integrated nutritional strategies during pregnancy and lactation.