Essential fatty acids work in almost every function of our body. They help maintain healthy heart and arteries, stabilize moods, keep skin fresh and young, and keep cell membranes working properly. These essential fatty acids must be obtained through diet, as the body cannot synthesize them. A deficiency in essential fatty acids may cause drying up of the skin, glands and heart and circulatory system, and may affect the immune and reproductive system. Eskimos, who eat a diet high in omega-3, have a very low incidence of degenerative diseases. The two main families, the Omega-3 fatty acid and Omega-6 are both polyunsaturated hormone-like substances and have an important effect on immune function, smooth muscle function and inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty, cold-water fish, flaxseed oil, and cod liver oil. There are other food sources, but they are not as high in fatty acid content. Many researchers feel that the best source of the omega-3 oil is the fish rather than the plant derived sources.
Most Americans eat enough Omega-6, or linoleic acid, but often it is not converted to a usable form because of metabolic problems caused by diets rich in sugar, alcohol, or trans-fats from processed foods. Omega-6 is found in found in supplements such as evening primrose oil, borage oil or black current seed oil.
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