What are Essential Fatty Acids?
October 5, 2009 by Jo
Our bodies use many different fatty acids but all are based on two that form the essential building blocks: linoleic acid and linolenic acid. These two essential fatty acids are not able to be manufactured by the body and we must get them from the foods we eat. Thus, they are essential for building blocks and essential for us to include in our diet.
The linoleic fatty acid family are also commonly known as Omega 6 fatty acids and the linolenic fatty acids by Omega 3.
Essential fatty acids are a necessary component for making cellular membranes, important hormones and other chemical message systems used by the body to run efficiently. These building blocks are also essential in forming prostaglandins , hormone like substances that regulate such activities as inflammation, swelling, allergic reactions which are all important in relation to our skin.
Essential fatty acids also play a part in controlling blood pressure, are natural blood thinners and Omega 3 is the most abundant fat in our brain.
A diet low in essential fatty acids can result in such skin problems as eczema, dandruff, nails that split easily, hair that breaks and splits and dry, dull skin. Skin that obtains enough Omega 3 is soft and pliable and has a healthy glow.
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