What are Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) ?

Thursday, August 27, 2009

EFA’s are the good fats that the body needs for multiple purposes such as movement of oxygen through the blood, helps lower your LDL’s (Low Density Lipoprotein), supports the cardiovascular system, immune system, nervous system, and reproductive system. They are necessary for strong organs and tissues by aiding in cell membranes development, strength and function.

There are a few different kinds. There are Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9. Omega 3 and 6 are fatty acids that the body can not produce on its own and has to be taken in by either supplements or foods. Omega 9 is an essential but not an EFA technically, because the body can produce a limited amount on its own.

Omega 3’s are used for cell formation making them flexible, and improving circulation and oxygen uptake. Low levels of Omega 3’s will result in blood clotting, decreased immune function, poor vision, decreased memory, decreased mental function, irregular heartbeats, learning inabilities. You can find Omega 3’s in flaxseed oil, tuna, anchovies, dark green leafy vegetables, avocadoes, sesame seeds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.

Omega 6’s are beneficial for PMS, rheumatoid arthritis, some skin disorders, and also aids in the treatment for cancer. You can find Omega 6’s in flaxseeds, hempseeds, pumpkin seeds, raw sunflower seeds, pistachio nuts, olive oil, evening primrose oil, chicken, etc.

Omega 9’s aids in cancer treatments, lowers heart attack risk, lowers arteriosclerosis. You can find Omega 9’s in nuts such as peanuts, pistachios, almonds, pecans, macadamia nuts, cashews, hazelnuts. Also can be found in avocados, and olive oil.