Fatty Acids

Scientific Name: Carboxylic Acid.

Other Names: Omega 3, Omega 6, Omega 9, Omega Oils, EFA.

Fatty acids are any number of carboxylic acids that can be saturated or unsaturated. 

Some fatty acids are considered essential for the health of the human body.

Origin: The human body produces all but two types of fatty acids.

Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, the two essential fatty acids (labeled essential because the body cannot produce them and they are necessary for health), are found in many plant oils. 

Humans can make saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, but both essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated, and the enzymes necessary for the creation of such compounds are not present in humans. 

Other fatty acids are found in fish oils, especially the omega-3 fatty acids.

Sources of Fatty Acids: As a dietary supplement, fatty acids are sold as “fish oil” or “omega oil” capsules, usually in the form of gelcaps. 

Dosages vary based on the type of oil in the supplement.

Home Remedies using Fatty Acids:

Benefits and Uses of Fatty Acids:

Essential fatty acids are used to produce hormone-like substances that regulate bodily functions such as blood clotting, immune response, blood pressure, blood lipid levels, and even inflammatory responses to the infection of injuries. 

The essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats and are, respectively, the parent compounds of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Fatty acids are important in the life and death of cardiac cells as essential fuels for activities (both electrical and mechanical) in the heart. 

Diets poor in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can be associated with depression, behavioral changes, and violence.

Fatty acids are important in the formation of compounds such as prostaglandins, which are vital for several bodily functions, including:

• Control of spinal neuron sensitivity
• Control of cell growth
• Regulation of hormones
• Regulation of inflammatory response
• Regulation of calcium movement

Diets rich in omega oils have been touted to improve attention spans. 

Fatty acids may also be helpful in treating and regulating inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS).

Side Effects of Fatty Acids:

Because essential fatty acids are polyunsaturated, they are considered “good” fats and “healthy” fats. 

There are no known negative side effects, with the exception of a possibility of belching with a fishy flavor for the first two to three days after beginning treatment with supplements.