The DHA Score™ Breast Milk Test

What is it?

The DHA Score™ is a test that measures the amount of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid required for cognitive and retinal development, in the breast milk. The DHA Score™ is used by breastfeeding women to confirm whether their DHA levels are adequate and to ensure they are providing their infant with optimal nutrition for brain function and eye health. Fasting is not required for this test.

How does it work?

DHA is a naturally-occurring omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid derived from foods such as fish, flax and walnuts or from dietary ingredients like fish oil, krill oil and flaxseed. The consumption of adequate levels of DHA before, during and after pregnancy has been shown to be crucial for infant development.

For the millions of breastfeeding women globally, the health of their baby is vitally important. Unfortunately, many women are unaware that the DHA levels in their breast milk are low. This is due to inadequate consumption of dietary DHA sources including foods and omega-3 supplements.

The DHA Score™ is a simple test that measures the amount of DHA in the breast milk. Controlled human clinical trials have shown that when the amount of DHA in a sample of breast milk is greater than or equal to 0.35%, the baby’s Mental Development Index (MDI) and Psychomotor Development Index (PDI) improve. Most North American breast milk falls well below this target of 0.35%, being 0.15% on average.

What is the Mental Development Index?

The MDI is a scientifically accepted rating or score that measures the overall mental development of individuals based on their age. The MDI evaluates several types of abilities including sensory, perceptual, memory, learning, problem solving, vocalization, abstract thinking and mathematical concepts. In infants, the MDI is used to assess overall cognitive development and confirm whether the infant's mental development is on track for their age.

What is the Psychomotor Development Index?

The PDI is a scientifically accepted rating or score that measures the progressive acquisition of skills involving both mental as well as motor activities in humans based on their age. The PDI evaluates several types of abilities including body control, large muscle group coordination, manipulation skills of the hands and fingers and the ability to recognize objects by touch. In infants, the PDI is used to assess overall physical and motor skill ability and confirm whether the infant's psychomotor development in these areas is on track for their age.

Test results are provided in an easy to understand report to allow you to compare your breast milk levels of DHA with scientifically proven cut-offs.

Who can benefit from the DHA Score™?

Breastfeeding women worldwide can benefit from the DHA Score™. The test allows you to determine your DHA levels and ensure you are providing your infant with optimal nutrition for brain function and eye health.

If the test reveals that you have inadequate levels of DHA in your breast milk, and you choose to increase your intake through DHA-rich foods and supplements, you can then track your progress by getting tested again.

Where can I get tested?

For ordering information, please contact Sales.