DHA · low result
What does a low DHA mean?
Short answer
Low DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) reflects little recent intake of oily fish or DHA supplements. DHA is the dominant omega-3 in the brain and retina and the one that matters most in pregnancy and infancy; adults with low DHA have a lower Omega-3 Index and, in observational studies, higher cardiovascular risk. Plant omega-3 (ALA) barely converts to DHA, so vegans rely on algae-based supplements.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
What is the normal range for DHA?
- age 18+: 30.0 – 250 mcg/mL
Full reference table, citations and testing options: DHA biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low DHA?
- Low intake of oily fish
- Vegan or vegetarian diet without algae-based DHA
- High omega-6 intake, some genetic variants
What symptoms go with low DHA?
- None directly
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Omega-3 Index
- Two to three servings of oily fish weekly, or 1–2 g/day EPA+DHA (algae DHA for vegans); retest in 4 months
- In pregnancy, discuss DHA intake with the obstetric clinician (200–300 mg/day is commonly advised)
How do you recheck DHA?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Longevity & Anti-Aging Panel | Panel · 13 tests | $239.99 | Yes | 3–7 business days |
| Healthy Aging Panel | Panel · 15 tests | $299.99 | Yes | 3–5 business days |
| Total Body Panel | Panel · 49 tests | $499.99 | Yes | 5–10 business days |
| Omega-3 Index | Test · 5 biomarkers | $69.99 | No | 7–10 business days |
Common questions
How much DHA do I need?
There is no formal US requirement; 250–500 mg/day of combined EPA+DHA is the common adult target, with at least 200 mg DHA in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.