HANSUN Omega-6 Fatty
Acids
About Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids are a class of polyunsaturated
fatty acids that includes linoleic and arachidonic acids.
Linoleic acid comes from commonly consumed animal and vegetable
products and is the predominant fatty acid in vegetable oils.
Studies show linoleic acid decreases LDL cholesterol and total
cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol. Omega-6 fatty
acids are fatty acids where the term "omega-6" signifies
that the first double bond in the carbon backbone of the fatty
acid, counting from the end opposite the acid group, occurs
in the sixth carbon-carbon bond.
Omega-6 fatty acids are one of the structural components
in cell walls and membranes throughout the body. They are
also involved in a complex interaction that leads to the production
of prostoglandins in the body. Arachidonic acid, an omega-6
fatty acid, is one of the most important precursors of anti-inflammatory
prostaglandins. These precursors are jointly referred to as
eicosanoids since they have 20 carbon atoms. Once processed
by the body, GLA is converted into prostaglandins, hormonelike
substances that can either block inflammation or promote it.
The body uses prostoglandins to control inflammation, dilate
blood vessels, and regulate immune function. Omega-6 fatty
acid supplementation, in the form of GLA from EPO or other
sources, may assist nerve function and help prevent nerve
disease experienced by those with diabetes. A deficiency in
essential fatty acids (including GLA and EPA, an omega-3 fatty
acid) can lead to severe bone loss .
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