If you’re shopping for a fish oil supplement with high DHA, you’re likely not after a general omega-3. You’re focused on cognitive support, reducing inflammation, or eye health, and DHA plays a central role in all three.
This guide compares some of the most effective high-DHA fish oil supplements available in triglyceride form. We’ll cover how they perform on actual DHA content, cost per gram, and quality of sourcing.
Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you’re managing a medical condition.
Why Focus on DHA?
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is one of the two main omega-3s in fish oil. While EPA is more associated with inflammation control, DHA is essential for brain and eye structure. It also plays a role in cellular repair and cardiovascular health.
What the science says
- A 2016 meta-analysis found that DHA supplementation improved memory in adults with mild cognitive symptoms.
- DHA makes up a significant portion of brain and retinal tissue.
- It may reduce triglyceride levels and support healthy blood vessels, both of which benefit heart health.
Comparing High-DHA Fish Oil Supplements (Triglyceride Form)
All of the supplements below are in triglyceride form for better absorption. These are among the highest-DHA options on the market.
| Product | DHA (mg) | EPA (mg) | Total Omega-3s (mg) | Serving Size | Cost per Gram DHA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nordic Naturals ProDHA 1000 | 900 | 200 | 1125 | 2 softgels | ~$2.05 | High DHA; good for cognitive support |
| Carlson Super DHA Gems | 500 | 100 | 640 | 1 softgel | ~$1.32 | Affordable single softgel option |
| OmegaVia DHA 600 | 600 | 60 | 720 | 1 softgel | ~$1.56 | High DHA-to-EPA ratio |
| WHC UnoCardio X2 | 800 | 120 | 1000 | 1 softgel | ~$2.50 | IFOS certified; premium product |
| NOW DHA-500 | 500 | 250 | 750 | 1 softgel | ~$0.90 | Budget-friendly; may not be TG form |
| Vital Choice Omega-3 | 720 | 90 | 900 | 2 softgels | ~$2.30 | Wild salmon oil; sustainably sourced |
Prices are based on typical online retail and may vary.
Does DHA Help Prevent Alzheimer’s or Dementia?
DHA supports memory and brain function, especially in people with low baseline DHA levels. A 2016 study showed improved learning and memory in older adults with early memory complaints taking high-DHA fish oil.
That said, large reviews haven’t found strong evidence that DHA prevents Alzheimer’s or dementia across the general population. Supplementation may be most helpful early, before symptoms progress.
DHA and Long-Term Heart Health
DHA has been shown to:
- Reduce triglycerides
- Support healthy blood pressure
- Improve arterial flexibility
These benefits matter, but there’s limited evidence that DHA alone prevents heart attacks or strokes. It’s supportive, not a substitute for a broader approach to cardiovascular health.
How to Choose the Right DHA Supplement
Choosing a high-DHA fish oil comes down to three main factors:
- DHA per serving – Don’t rely on the “fish oil” number. Check the actual DHA content.
- Cost per gram of DHA – Do the math. Some premium products are worth it. Others aren’t.
- Form – Triglyceride form is better absorbed than ethyl ester.
Always check the label for third-party testing, oxidation status, and the source of the ingredients. And as always, talk to your doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you’re managing a medical condition.
If you’re taking fish oil specifically for brain or eye health, look for high-DHA, triglyceride-form supplements. You’ll pay a little more, but you’ll get what you came for.