Essential Fatty Acids

Essential Fatty Acids, also called E.F.A.s, are fats required by the body, but not manufactured by it. They work to strengthen the membranes of the cells and to promote the growth of muscles and nerves. Fish oils and evening primrose oil are among the richest dietary source of essential fatty acids.

 
Tinned fish is often fresher than 'fresh' fish as it is frozen, cooked and canned within 2 days whereas 'fresh' fish can be up to 14 days old when sold. Tuna is the only tinned fish which loses it's omega-3 on the canning process.

Natural anti-inflammatories, E.F.A.s are useful in the treatment of arthritis, asthma and a number of skin conditions. They are also used therapeutically to thin the blood and to prevent blood clotting.

 

The two main essential fatty acids are linoleic acid and linolenic acid, also known as omega-6 and omega-3 oils respectively. Both are vital for the brain and nervous system, the immune system, the hormonal system, the cardiovascular system and the skin. The first sign of their deficiency is a dry skin, dry eyes and a greater than normal thirst.

 

Seeds in general but especially sesame and sunflower seeds are rich in linoleic acid (omega-6), while pumpkin and flax seeds (edible linseeds) are rich in linolenic acid (omega-3).

 

Linoleic acid (omega-6) converts in the body into two further substances: gamma linolenic acid (G.L.A.) and di-homo-linolenic acid (D.G.L.A.) which is further converted to arachidonic acid (A.A.).

 

Linolenic acid (omega-3) is converted into eicosapentoniic acid (E.P.A.) and docosahexenoic acid (D.H.A.)

 

E.P.A. and D.H.A. are also found in fatty fish such as mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines.

 

Further to this D.G.L.A., A.A. and E.P.A. go on to produce prostaglandins which have a regulatory effect on the body and an anti-inflammatory effect.

 

Research suggests that E.F.A.s are necessary to balance the calcium in the body, particularly the bones. Omega-3 oils may slow down the loss of calcium in the urine, which includes some lost from the bones. Omega-6 oils will help the body to absorb calcium.

 

 

What's good about fish oils:

• Can counteract the effects of some immunosuppressive drugs.
•  
• May help the treatment of kidney disease.
•  
• May help prevent cancer, in particular breast cancer.
•  
• Stops the progression of arthritis.
•  
• May help to protect against hypertension (high blood pressure).
•  
• May help to treat psoriasis.
•  
• Fish oils are now believed to improve overall health conditions, the best sources of which are herring, salmon, tuna, cod and prawns.

 

For most people it is enough to increase intake of fish and seafood in order to achieve benefits of fish oils in natural form without taking supplements. People suffering from arthritis or psoriasis can take up to 4g daily fish oil supplements with physician supervision. Maximum suggested dosage without physician supervision is 900mg per day. Caution - fish oils may be harmful in diabetics since they can cause an increase in blood sugar level and a decline in insulin secretion.