Essential fatty acid metabolism and requirements for LBW infants.

ABSTRACT

Humans are unable to synthesize linoleic acid (LA) (182 omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (LNA) (183 omega-3). Most formulas provide ample LA, yet infants are at risk for omega-3 deficiency unless they are fed human milk. Neonates born at 30 weeks received human milk or were randomized to three formulas formula A, based on corn oil, similar to old commercial formula; formula B, based on soy oil supplied LNA; or formula C, a product similar to B with added marine oil to provide docosahexaenoic acid (226 omega-3). The fatty acids of plasma and red blood cells had marked diet-induced differences. The rod photo-receptor tests demonstrated higher threshold and decreased sensitivity in the omega-3-deficient infants. Visual acuity also showed improved function of the brain cortex in the human milk and group C infants at follow-up at 57 weeks. These results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are needed for optimal development of visual function.