Fatty Acids & Health

Fatty acids are the building blocks of fats necessary for a healthy body . Many can be manufactured in the body from other fatty acids and by the conversion of sugar in the liver. Those that the body cannot produce must be provided by the diet and are cared essential fatty acids.

There are two groups of essential fatty acids that are called Omega-3 and Omega-6. All essential fatty acids are naturally polyunsaturated. Essential fatty acids that are essential in the diet for marinating good health are;
Alpha linolenic acid (LNA or ALA) (omega-3)
Eicosapentenoic acid (EPA) (omega-3)
Docosahexanoic acid (DHA) (omega-3)
Linoleic acid (LA) (omega-6)
Arachidonic acid (AA) (omega-6)
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) (omega-6)
Dihomogamma linolenic acid (DGLA) (omega-6)

Whilst the Omega-6 essential fatty acids are abundant in many types of vegetable oils and meats. Omega-3's are much harder to source and can be found in pasture fed meat like beef, oily fish like salmon and mackerel, flax and pumpkin seeds and nuts. Unfortunately most of us are not including enough of these items in our diet.

Essential fatty acids are essential for brain and nerve health however the lack of essential fatty acids can cause depression and other psychiatric diseases, aggressive behaviour and behaviour problems in children.

How can I get enough omega 3 essential fatty acids in my diet.

Try to eat foods that contain omega 3 which are listed above and you can also use a high quality omega 3 supplements, but make sure that it is pure omega 3 non-diluted and ensure that dioxin has been removed.

Note
During pregnancy the growing baby will need omega 3 for brain and nerve development and it is recommended that mothers take a omega 3 suppliment.