Bluebonnet Nutritions

Omega-6 fatty acids consist of the parent compound linoleic acid (LA) and its derivatives gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and arachidonic acid (AA) and are naturally found in flax seed oils. LA and GLA are precursors for prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances in the body that positively influence blood pressure, heart rate, inflammation and the immune response. Dietary sources rich in LA and GLA include evening primrose and borage oil.

LA is the short chain form of omega-6 and is a thin liquid at room temperature. It has been noted that LA in the body produces two types of sphingolipids (lipids involved in signal transmission and cell recognition) that maintain the structure of the outer layer of the skin, preventing excessive water loss. In addition, when dietary fat intake is enriched with LA, instead of saturated fatty acids, it helps to maintain cholesterol levels already within the normal range.

GLA is a long chain PUFA, which produces PGE-1, a prostaglandin. PGE-1 inhibits inflammation in the body by knocking out COX-2, an enzyme involved in the inflammation pathway. Inflammation can occur in different places in the body, such as the skin. GLA supplementation can potentially circumvent these problems. By incorporating omega-6 fatty acids into the diet, the composition of most membranes will adapt to some extent to the type of fat available, modifying the synthesis of hormone-like substances, thus, aiding in skin health and attenuating the issues associated with menopause.

Not to be confused with GLA, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), also an omega-6 fatty acid, inhibits lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme that specifically breaks down fats from the diet, which aids in weight management with proper diet and exercise by reducing the amount of fat that is broken down, deposited and stored in the body for healthy weight management. CLA is made from a proprietary process that converts linoleic acid (omega-6) from safflowers into conjugated linoleic acid. Major dietary sources of CLA include dairy products and beef fat.

Omega-9 fatty acids are not essential fatty acids; however, they are still important for good health. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found in olives and olive oil and is a key element of the Mediterranean diet, which benefits the heart by promoting healthy lipid levels.