Essential Fatty
What are Essential Fatty Acids, and why we need them
What are Essential Fatty Acids, and why we need them.
Essential Fatty Acids, or EFAs as they are commonly referred to, are important healthy fatty acids that cannot be constructed from within a single organism. For this discussion the organism that we refer to is none other than the human body. So to be perfectly clear, the human body cannot make the all-important fatty acids by itself. For this reason we must find a way to take the essential nutrients through diet as well as supplementation.
The two basic groups of essential fatty acids are the ?-3 (or omega-3 or n?3) and ?-6 (omega-6, n?6). Studies have shown that fats from both of these families are not only essential, but they are actually healthy too! The human body can convert one omega-3 to another omega-3, but cannot however create an omega-3 from omega-6, or from the saturated fat group.
An interesting fact about the essential fatty acid family is that when they were discovered in 1923, EFAs were designated as Vitamin F. After a few years passed, in 1930 Burr and Miller showed that they we be better classified as fats than as vitamins.
The human body and the essential fatty acids work together to server multiple purposes. Following are some of the many important functions which EFAs serve. These functions include the balance between dietary ?-3 and ?-6 which strongly affects function. They are then modified to make the isofurans, neurofurans, isoprostanes, hepoxilins, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) and Neuroprotectin D, the lipoxins from ?-6 EFAs and resolvins from ?-3 (in the presence of aspirin, downregulating inflammation.), the endocannabinoids (affecting mood, behavior and inflammation), and the classic eicosanoids (affecting inflammation and many other cellular functions).
A question that many ask is why these fatty acids are essential, and why exactly are they healthy. Both the arachidonic and the linolenic acids were termed essential during the middle half of the 20th century. The reason for this was because the two were more or less able to suffice the growth requirements of rats that were given fat free diets. Since the 1950s there has also been many discoveries as to why the essential fatty acids are truly essential. Some studies have even shown evidence that gamma-linolenic acid, GLA has been shown to inhibit the breast cancer promoting gene of Her2/neu.
Some of the different sources that you can get your needed EFAs are, in addition to supplementation, shellfish, fish, flaxseed (linseed), soya oil, hemp oil, canola (rapeseed) oil, pumpkin seeds, leafy vegetables, Chia Seeds, and walnuts. By taking these foods or supplements, your body and the essential fatty acids work together to help out in your body’s metabolic process. There is even much evidence to support the fact that low levels of EFAs, or even the incorrect balance of types of EFAs may possibly be one of many factors in many debilitating illnesses such as osteoporosis. Another noteworthy distinction that the EFAs hold is that most of the polyunsaturated fats in the human diet are EFAs, of which they play a very vital role in the growth and death of cardiac cells.
We hope that this has been informative and that you will find a way to incorporate essential fatty acids into you diet, either through diet or through supplementation. You’ll be happy that you did!
About the Author
For more info on essential fatty acids, visit Top Form EFAs
Essential Fatty Acid Man
|
|
2-SPEED Juiceman Pro $129.99 The Salton Juiceman Juicer is a great way to create and enjoy fresh juice at home. Fresh juice provides us with minerals, vitamins, essential fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins and much more. All of these factors are vital to maintaining good health. You will find that when you make fresh juice a daily part of your diet, you will have increased energy, a glowing complexion, strengthened immune s… |
|
|
Mackerel tail Photo Mugs Mackerel tail. Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) is an oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It is an excellent source of vitamins B12, B6, A and D….. |
|
|
Salmon fillet Photo Mugs Salmon fillet….. |
|
|
Complete Omega 3-6-9, 180 Softgels, Nordic Naturals $40.76 Nordic Naturals Complete Omega 3-6-9 Delivers EPA and DHA from fish oil and GLA from borage oil. Lemon flavor. Distilled for purity, Complete Omega-3.6.9 is an ideal supplement to ensure adequate intake of essential fatty acids from both fish and plant source. Rosemary extract has been added for freshness, and natural lemon oil for palatability…. |
|
|
The Essential Charlie Chaplin – Vol. 2: 7 Keystone Comedies $8.37 The Essential CHARLIE CHAPLIN COLLECTION…a must-have for any fan or film buff’s library. This definitive collection of 12-DVDs contains 57 of Chaplin’s legendary early films in chronological order…a true historical legacy of the greatest comedian who ever lived. COVERS CHAPLIN’S WORK AT KEYSTONE, ESSANAY, MUTUAL AND FIRST NATIONAL FILM COMPANIES. * Beautifully animated DVD menus * Alternate so… |
|
|
1/2 Gallon Ultra Oil Skin & Coat Supplement with Hempseed Oil (64 fl. oz.) $74.74 1/2 Gallon Ultra Oil Skin & Coat Supplement with Hempseed Oil (64fl. oz.) Ultra-Oil Skin & Coat Supplement For Pets is a pure gift from Mother Nature. Our special formula of nutritional oils from Hempseed, Flaxseed, Grapeseed and Fish provides the Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids pets need for healthy skin and a shining coat. Hempseed oil, our primary ingredient, contains the highest total percentage of these vital fatty acids in the form of Alpha-Linolenic acid (Omega 6), Alpha-Linolenic acid (Omega 3), and Gamma Linolenic acid. Added daily to your pet’s food, Ultra-Oil Skin & Coat Supplement For Pets provides the proper balance of nutrients for growth and vitality. All of nature’s goodness is wrapped up into one food additive that your pets will love and thank you for! Benefits of Ultra Oil for Pets Excellent source of essential fatty acids including Omega 3, 6 and GLA Lower blood LDL cholesterol levels Lower blood pressure Improve cardiovascular circulation & function Improve organ function Improve immunity levels Increased energy levels & metabolic rate Reduce inflammation and the symptoms of arthritis Reduce & treat dry skin and hair conditions Reduction of many degenerative diseases through preventative measures GMO-Free, Gluten-free, Herbicide & Pesticide free No THC and Trypsin inhibitor free Hemp products have a wonderful nutty flavor by. Ultra-Oil For Pets |
|
|
100 Health-Boosting Foods: Facts and Recipes for Super Health $14.95 Did you know that avocados can help lower cholesterol and that tomatoes are full of cancer-beating lycopene? From chilies and chocolate to broccoli and Brazil nuts, here are the 100 mega foods that will make a real difference to your health. With delicious recipes and serving suggestions for every food, you can eat your way to curing a cold, boosting energy, lowering blood pressure, or preventing heart disease. At-a-glance charts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids-coupled with a handy glossary-provide vital nutritional information about each food. And with easy, tasty recipes like Fig, Mozzarella, and Prosciutto Salad and Coriander and Tomato Salsa, what”s not to like? |
|
|
100% Vegan Protein Chocolate 16.2 oz $13.49 Authorized Vendor for Vegan Protein Chocolate Powder. Contains isolated, highly digestible pea protein, organic hemp protein, and antioxidant rich cranberry protein. The pea protein in our 100% Vegan Protein contains the ideal amino acid profile for human consumption. Pea protein is rich in amino acids such as bone supporting L-Lysine, energy supporting BCAAs (Branched Chain Amino Acids), cardiovascular supporting L-Arginine, and muscle supporting L-Glutamine. Hemp provides dietary fiber for digestive support. Hemp is a valuable source of amino acid-rich complete protein. Hemp is unique in that it offers not only fiber and protein but also the important essential fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. No animal derived material (completely vegan). No added sodium. The sodium content is organic sodium supplied naturally by the pea protein. . |
|
|
100% Vegetarian The Total EFA 90 sgels $20.29 Authorized Vendor for 100% Vegetarian The Total EFA. The Total EFA 100% Vegetarian Softgels offer comprehensive and convenient omega 3-6-9 nutrition without animal-based gelatin or the need to measure or refrigerate liquid. Made with certified organic flax, borage and evening primrose oils, The Total EFA 100% Vegetarian softgels contain the most potent Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) seed oils, intended to provide nutritional support for whole body health.Rigorously quality tested to guarantee purity, potency and truth-in-labeling. . |
|
|
20# Puppy Asst Tri B $31.08 QCP1047: Features: -Biscuits enhance skin and coat with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. -Freshly oven baked with all natural ingredients, they are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. -Can be fed as a complete and balanced meal. -Weight: 20 lbs. -Dimensions: 13.25 H x 9.5 W x 14.5 D. |
|
|
25 lbs Vita Prima Ferret Diet Food $31.79 SDM1065: Features: -Pet food.-Nutritious and balanced diet designed specifically for ferrets GI tract and specific digestive requirements.-Rich in meat based amino acids and fortified with vitamins and minerals.-Yucca enriches the diet, spirulina enhances the immune system and essential fatty acids contribute to a healthy skin and coat.-Unique pellet shape is beneficial to ferret chewing and there is no added fish meal, meaning fewer odors in the cage.-Porcine meat and bone meal.-Chicken by-product meal.-Ground corn.-Brewers rice.-Poultry fat (preserved with citric acid).-Corn gluten meal.-Egg product.-Brewers dried yeast.-Spirulina.-Beet pulp.-Dried skimmed milk, etc. |
|
|
8 In 1 Pet Products Excel Nutricoat Skin & Coat Liquid 8 Oz $7.99 EIL1066: Features: -Nutricoat skin and coat liquid.-Essential fatty acids and vitamins required for a healthy skin and coat.-Helps reduce shedding and provides a silky and shiny coat.-Easy to feed liquid. |
|
|
8 in1 Chicken Ferret Bites, 4 oz. $1.57 VGO1050: Features: -Ferret treat. -Delicious soft and chewy treat with good-for-them nutritious ingredients. -Provides essential fatty acids for healthy and shiny coat. Flavor: -Chicken. Specifications: -Weight: 0.25 lb. -Dimensions: 5.88 H x 4.13 W x 1.25 D. -Capacity: 4 oz.. Made in United States |
|
|
8 in1 Ferret Bites, Banana/Raisin $1.57 VGO1049: Features: -Ferret treat. -Delicious soft and chewy treat with good-for-them nutritious ingredients. -Provides essential fatty acids for healthy and shiny coat. Flavor: -Banana, raisins. Specifications: -Weight: 0.4 lb. -Dimensions: 5.88 H x 4.13 W x 1.25 D. -Capacity: 4 oz.. Made in United States |
|
|
8 in1 Ferret-Vite, 4.25 oz. $4.24 High energy daily supplement exclusively for ferrets. Helps stimulate appetite and increase weight gain. Rich in essential fatty acids and taurine to ensure healthy skin and glossy coat. |
Tags: acids, essential, essential fatty acid deficiency, essential fatty acid deficiency symptoms, essential fatty acids, essential fatty acids foods, essential fatty acids supplements, fatty, health, nutrition