Non breast-fed preterm infants who are given formula supplemented with DHA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, show better visual acuity than those receiving standard formula, says a recent study.
The authors state that their results show the importance of omega-3 fatty acids in the early development of the visual system. Additionally, they make the point that intake of these essential nutrients may confer lasting advantages on other developmental processes, although these need to be studied further.
Pediatrics 2000; 105: 1292-1298.
It has become quite clear that the addition of DHA to formula is important and quite beneficial. It does bring the formula one small step closer to breastmilk, but even with the DHA, it is really not in the same league. It is my understanding that this is available in Europe, but for whatever reason is not yet available here.
However, I don't think that the DHA by itself is the best solution. Ideally there should be a balance between DHA and EPA. Fortunately, for less than the cost of the 10%-15% likely increase in price for DHA supplemented formula, when it is finally approved, anyone can add one fish oil capsule every other day to the formula and receive the benefit.
One does not have to wait for government approval on this one. Please review other studies (see below) that document this also and includes specific recommendations on how you can incorporate the fish oil capsules into the formula program.