Omega 6 fatty acids and omega 3 fatty acids are essential for
achieving and maintaining good health
Omega 6 fatty acids are considered “good” fatty acids
as are omega 3 fatty acids which are
generally considered to be the more common of the two, however, both are
essential fatty acids. This means that
the body can’t produce these compounds and are needed for optimal health.
Fatty acids can be found in cereals, eggs, whole grain bread,
vegetable oil, and margarine. However, you must get balanced amounts of omega 3
and omega 6 fatty acids for them to be most beneficial. The majority of people’s diets
are high in omega 6 and low in omega 3 (found in high amounts in
fish oils) which is why omega 6 supplements are not needed as often.
Omega 6 fatty acids that have a lot of linoleic acid are converted to gamma linoleic acid by the body. This is what makes this essential
fatty acid so good for you. Gamma linoleic acid or GLA’s help regulate inflammation, kidney
functions, blood pressure, and gastrointestinal functions.
Omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids ability to regulate inflammation makes
them a good supplement for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Experts
also suggest taking an over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine to increase
the relief received. The inflammatory regulation property also helps people who
suffer from skin conditions like psoriasis, and eczema. Essential fatty acids also
provide the skin with the nutrients it needs to remain healthy, so it can help
clear up acne as well. These beneficial supplements are also being extensively studied
for treatment of mood disorders such as depression. Research also
indicates that these essential oils are critical in the prevention of heart disease and
in fighting cancer.
Most diet experts do not suggest that people take omega 6 supplements since we get enough in our diets. However, this is only true for
those that consume at least 2 to 3 servings of fish per week and cook with corn or safflower oil
since these oils contain high amounts of beneficial linoleic acid. They also suggest taking omega 3 supplements for
best results especially when fish is lacking from the diet. These combined supplements are often referred to as fish oil
supplements since the highest concentrations are found in fish. Fatty acid supplements should be taken with food since they are fat soluble.
There are few side effects associated with taking essential fatty acid supplements and no known serious issues have been reported.
Learn more about the best vitamin supplements and the benefits they may have on your health.
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