Essential fatty acids

Essential fatty acids (EFAs), also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), are fats that humans and other animals must ingest for good health because the body requires them but can't make them from other food components.

Types of Essential Fatty Acids

There are two families of EFAs: Omega-3 (or n−3) and Omega-6 (or n−6). They are termed "essential" because they are necessary for health, and must be included in the diet because the human body cannot manufacture them.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat. The body cannot make these, so they must come from food. An excellent way to get omega-3 fatty acids is by eating certain kinds of fish.

Omega-6 fatty acids

Omega-6 fatty acids are also a type of polyunsaturated fat. The body needs these for many functions, such as maintaining the health of the skin, digestive tract, and reproductive system. However, the body cannot make these, so they must come from food.

Health Benefits

EFAs support the cardiovascular, reproductive, immune, and nervous systems. The human body needs EFAs to manufacture and repair cell membranes, enabling the cells to obtain optimum nutrition and expel harmful waste products.

Sources of Essential Fatty Acids

EFAs are found in high concentrations in the brain, and are essential for brain health and function. They are also necessary for the structure of cell membranes, and they help regulate the function of the cardiovascular, immune, and digestive systems.

See Also

• Fatty acid
• Omega-3 fatty acid
• Omega-6 fatty acid

References

Essential fatty acids Resources
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