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The ABC of EFA
Contrary to popular myth, the body does need fat. However, it must be the right kind. The fact is that fat is vital to every cell, tissue and organ, including the eyes and brain. Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) provide the basic building blocks of the various cells in the body. They play a vital role in maintaning the integrity of body tissues. And, like vitamins and minerals, EFA cannot be made by the body and must be supplied by the diet.

Dietary sources of EFA are available in quantities to compensate a dificiency. Also, a number of factors such as following a diet high in saturated and trans fatty acids, high levels of cholesterol, alcohol consumption and aging can block then conversion of essential fatty acids to its useful end product.

There are two types of essential fatty acids that rise to other long chain fatty acids. The Omega-3 and Omerga-6 fatty acids

Omega-3 Fatty Acids


Widespread in marine fish oils

Common Omega-3 Fatty Acids are:
  • Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)
  • Eicosapentaeonic Acid (EPA)
  • Decosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)

Eicosapentaeonic Acid(EPA)- An important fatty acid for circulatory sistem health.

Decosahexaenoic Acid(DHA)- DHA is found in the eye and the brain membranes, it plays an important role for vision and brain function and is vital for healthy heart function. Along with AA, DHA is important for the healthy development of the eye and brain in developing fetus and newborn baby.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids


Found in, but not limited to plant oils

Common Omega-6 Fatty Acids are:
  • Linoleic Acid (LA)
  • Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
  • Dihomogamma-Linolenic Acid (DGLA)
  • Arachidonic Acid (AA)

Gamma-Linolenic Acid(GLA)- Commonly found in unsaturated vegetable oils such as evening primrose oil and borage oil. It's converted by the body to prostaglandinis, hormone-like substances that play a role in a wide variety of body functions including maintaining hormonal balance and healthy looking skin.