Essential Fatty Acids

What are essential fatty acids?

Polyunsaturated fats contain essential fatty acids that classified as either omega-3 (linolenic acid) or omega-6 (linoleic acid). Essential fatty acids are used for blood clotting, brain development, and heart health. For example, essential fatty acids have been shown to lower the “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and raise the “good” (HDL) cholesterol.

  • Omega-3 contains a hydrogen gap after the third carbon in its polysaturated chain. Omega-3 contains EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaneoic acid), which are known to improve brain and heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in foods such as fish, nuts, flaxseed, and other seafood.
  • Omega-6 contains a hydrogen gap after the sixth carbon in its polysaturated chain. Omega-6 sustains normal growth and improves brain function, and may help in reduce arthritis, vascular disease, and heart disease. Omega-6 fatty acids can be found in foods such as soybean oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, and safflower oil.

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Nutritional studies, articles and updates on essential fatty acids:

>>>Omega-3′s show promise as early defense for dementia by Tufts University