ESSENTIAL FATTY-ACID METABOLISM AND REQUIREMENTS FOR LBW INFANTS

Humans are unable to synthesize linoleic acid (LA) (18:2 omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (LNA) (18:3 omega-3). Most formulas provide ample LA, yet infants are at risk for omega-3 deficiency unless they are fe d human milk. Neonates born at 30 weeks received human milk or were ra ndomized to three formulas: formula A, based on corn oil, similar to o ld commercial formula; formula B, based on soy oil supplied LNA; or fo rmula C, a product similar to B with added marine oil to provide docos ahexaenoic acid (22:6 omega-3). The fatty acids of plasma and red bloo d cells had marked diet-induced differences. The rod photoreceptor tes ts demonstrated higher threshold and decreased sensitivity in the omeg a-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 f or optimal development of visual function.