Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

PlexusDx: Understanding the Importance of DHA for Your Health

PlexusDx functions as a personalized health report service that delivers critical information about genetic factors which influence your health. In our discussion of nutrition and diet today we examine DHA as a genetic trait which acts as an essential omega-3 fatty acid crucial for maintaining brain and eye health. This analysis examines the importance of DHA alongside its bodily functions and genetic factors that affect its concentration. Among essential omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) stands out for its multiple health benefits. DHA functions as a critical component for growth and supports brain function while maintaining heart and eye health. Multiple studies show that DHA helps to improve memory functions, reduce triglyceride concentrations and anti-inflammatory processes which demonstrates its vital role in sustaining health. Although our bodies can create DHA from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), they do so with limited efficiency which makes dietary DHA essential. Salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, and tuna along with marine algae, oysters, and shrimps provide substantial amounts of DHA. You can introduce necessary omega-3 nutrients into your meals by consuming eggs along with omega-3 supplements. Health professionals suggest consuming between 250 and 500 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per day including both DHA and EPA. The recommended daily dose of DHA equates to eating 1-2 ounces of sardines, 3-6 ounces of oysters or 1-2.5 ounces of salmon. A sufficient consumption of DHA is essential for maintaining multiple body functions and enhancing general health. A person's genetic makeup may affect their likelihood of having inadequate DHA levels. Individuals who are overweight or who smoke or who maintain vegan or specific vegetarian eating practices face an increased risk of DHA deficiency. Western dietary patterns that contain high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids lead to reduced DHA levels because omega-6 fatty acids compete with DHA for placement in cell membranes. Genetic factors are responsible for as much as 10% of the observed differences in DHA levels between individuals according to scientific research. The body's capacity to sustain proper DHA levels depends on certain genes responsible for fat metabolism and storage processes which demonstrate the complex relationship between genetic factors and nutritional needs. Grasping how DHA functions and its genetic effects enables people to choose their diets wisely and maintain better health. Customers who explore PlexusDx Precision Health & Wellness tests available on PlexusDx.com as well as through Amazon and Walmart can understand their genetic predispositions for DHA metabolism and start taking steps to improve their health outcomes. Start your personalized health journey today to open the door to a healthier tomorrow.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.

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