Fats are highly useful and necessary in appropriate amounts in the body. The basic components of fats are fatty acids. Among them are a variety of substances called omega-3 and omega-6. Omega fatty acids are known to be essential, and the human body does not produce it. This means fatty acids must be ingested through proper nutrition.
Fatty acids can be saturated, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated. Saturated fatty acids include acetic, butyric and palmitic acids. Fatty acids can be found in oils and fats that make up different foods. They are an important part of a healthy diet because the body needs them for several purposes. Fatty acids are now being added to some infant formulas.
Functions of the Omega-3
Fatty acids decrease levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, and in turn reduce platelet aggregation in the arteries. This implies that blood platelets circulating in the body do not adhere to each other and thus prevent a clot from forming.
Other functions of Omega-3 highlights its role in the formation of cell membranes. Nerve cells are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and play an important role in regulating the cardiovascular, immunological, digestive and reproductive systems. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Omega-6 fatty acids are common fats found in soybean oil, nuts and seeds. These include fatty acids like linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Linoleic acid (LA) is found in common cooking oils, including sunflower oil, corn oil, canola oil and safflower oil. Omega-6 is essential because it helps the body repair itself.
Foods containing Omega-3 and Omega-6
Omega-3 and omega-6 are found in high concentrations in fish, seeds and vegetable oils such as linseed, soybean, pumpkin and nuts.
