Is DHA the same as fish oil?

DHA is not fish oil, yet fish oil is abundant in DHA. DHA stands for Docosahexaenoic Acid, an unsaturated fatty acid that is usually liquid at room temperature. Fish oil is an oil extracted from fatty fish, rich in substances such as Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). DHA is typically found in deep-sea fish and is a crucial component of cell membranes in the human brain and retina. It aids in brain development and promotes the development of nerve cells, improving memory. Therefore, pregnant women can appropriately supplement with DHA to facilitate fetal growth and development. The general population can also benefit from DHA supplements, which can lower blood viscosity, help dilate blood vessels, and promote blood circulation. Fish oil refers to the fatty oil extracted from fish bodies, rich in EPA, DHA, and various n-3 series polyunsaturated fatty acids. In a broader sense, fish oil includes fish fats such as cod liver oil, the main active components of which are vitamins A and D, commonly used to prevent and treat night blindness and rickets. However, the primary active components of fish oil generally referred to are DHA and EPA, which have the effect of regulating blood lipids. Thus, it can be seen that fish oil contains DHA, but their functions differ, so DHA is not fish oil.