Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are fatty acids which cannot be synthesized in the body, which means that people can only access them through dietary sources. They are also, as the name implies, essential to human health, performing a number of functions in the body and interacting with a variety of other compounds in the body. These fats are the “good fats” which are a necessary part of the human diet.

There are two different groups of EFA: omega-3, and omega-6. Omega-3s include linolenic acid, while omega-6s includes linoleic acid. Plant sources, including nuts and seeds, are a good source of essential fatty acids, as are marine sources. Each group of fatty acids are important for healthy body function. Additionally, the body also uses omega-9s, which can be produced in the body as long as omega-3s and omega-6s are present.

In an effort to lose weight, many Americans rely solely on non-fat or low-fat foods. What they’re forgetting is that some fats are good for you, even essential to proper immune function, blood clotting and cellular structure, function, and growth.

Usually referred to by name, omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids are fats the body cannot produce on its own that must be consumed through diet. Maintaining a healthy balance between the two essential fatty acid levels in the body is thought to lower the risk of developing some diseases and easing symptoms of certain medical conditions.

If you are health-conscious and have an interest in vitamins and nutritional supplements, you more than likely have taken notice of the Omegas: Omega-3 and Omega-6.

When selecting a cooking oil, avoid oils with saturated and Trans fats, which raise cholesterol and increase the risk for heart disease. Each cooking oil has its own set of nutritional and culinary uses. You must select the right oil for the job.

Triglycerides are where most of the fat calories are stored. In addition to providing energy, fat also serves other functions, for example, cholesterol and phospholipids are components of cell membranes and sheaths surrounding nerve cells. Cholesterol is also important for the production of bile acids and other hormones (such as testosterone, estrogen, and adrenal hormones).

Fatty acids consist of chains of carbon atoms linked together by chemical bonds. On one end (terminal) of the carbon chain is a methyl group (a cluster of carbon and hydrogen atoms), the other terminal is a carboxyl group (a cluster of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen atoms). The chemical bonds between carbon atoms can be either single or double bonds. Single bonds have more hydrogen molecules around them than double bonds. These chemical bonds determine whether a fatty acid is saturated or unsaturated. Everybody should focus on obtaining unsaturated fatty acids like flax seed oil. It is healthier and less likely to clog the arteries and elevate cholesterol.

Essential fatty acids are just that essential and needed by the body. In other words the body has to have them to survive. Quality essential fatty aids can be found at your local or internet vitamin store.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Essential fatty acids are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.

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