Essential Fatty Acids: Step 3 of Your Supplement Program.

by Jon Fiume
June 15, 2005

Last month I talked to you about the importance of supplementation for the prevention of disease and to obtain optimal wellness. I shared with you numerous reasons for taking a multivitamin as well as calcium and magnesium and the fact that you need to take them now. This month I am going to round out your program with the ever importatant essential fatty acids.

Essential fatty acids otherwise known as EFAs are the good fat. Yes, there is actually such a thing!!! They are essential because the body does not produce them on its own and therefore they must be obtained from food or via supplementation. And they are ever important because up to 80% of us are deficient.

There are many different types of EFAs and they play many different roles in the body. The two most popular types of EFAs are Omega-3 and Omega-6. You may have noticed on some of the food products you consume a statement that reads something to the extent of "contains omega-3 fatty acids that are heart healthy." Or you may have received recommendations to consume more cold water fish such as salmon and cod that contain a high amount of Omega-3's. Bottom line Omegas are in! And truly they should be because they can do so many positive things for the body. Here is a quick snapshot:

- Assist with reducing inflammation. Awesome for that joint pain that some of us are beginning to experience.
- Help with the management of healthy cholesterol levels. Bring down that LDL and increase that HDL.
- Assist in the regulation of blood pressure.
- Support the maintenance of blood sugar levels. Diabetics absolutely need essential fatty acids!!
- Nourish the skin. Almost always recommended for any type of skin conditions.
- Feed the brain. Omega 3's play a crucial role in the management of Attention Deficit Disorder. Were not getting those in the school lunches today are we?
- Assist with managing some of the symptoms of menopause. Specifically omega-6's can help alleviate hot flashes. Something to keep in mind for the future!
- May also help with some of the symptoms of PMS. Something to keep in mind now!
- Help with weight management. Yes you can actually maintain and possibly lose weight with the good fat!

Just like everything in life there are different types of Omega 3's and Omega 6's. The most popular type of Omega 3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). There will be a spelling exam at the end. DHA is starting to be seen added to infant formulas because it's role in assisting with brain development and supporting the immune system. EPAs are also supporting the immune system and playing part in the inflammation reduction process.

Gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) is the most popular type of Omega 6 fatty acid. GLA is most often found in evening primrose oil. Similar to the other essential fatty acids, GLA is often used to support the heart and to help with the symptoms of PMS and menopause.

For any of the abovementioned EFAs to be present they must have been converted in the body. Lifestyle issues such as smoking, environmental toxins, aging, too much saturated fat intake, alcohol, stress and diabetes can hinder this conversion. Therefore, if any of these lifestyle issues are your issues and you are considering supplementation; consider those products that specifically list the types of Omega 3's and Omega 6's. You will be better off for it.

Some final thoughts on EFAs... EFAs may have the ability to thin the blood so caution to those on blood thinning medications. Discuss EFAs and all supplements with your health care provider. EFAs are a crucial part of your supplement program. In some circumstances I find them to be just as valuable if not more so than taking a multivitamin. Here's to the good fat! Enjoy!

This information is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to take the place of your current healthcare program or advice from you healthcare professionals