Omega-6 fatty acids

Omega-6 fatty acids (pronunciation: /oʊˈmeɪɡə sɪks ˈfæti ˈæsɪdz/) are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that have in common a final carbon-carbon double bond in the n-6 position, that is, the sixth bond, counting from the methyl end.

Etymology

The term "Omega-6" is derived from the position of the first double bond in the fatty acid molecule. "Omega" is the last letter in the Greek alphabet, and the number 6 refers to the sixth carbon atom from the end of the fatty acid molecule.

Types of Omega-6 fatty acids

There are several types of omega-6 fatty acids, and some of them may be more beneficial than others. The most common omega-6 fat is linoleic acid, which can be converted into longer omega-6 fats such as arachidonic acid (ARA). Some other omega-6 fatty acids include gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).

Health implications

Omega-6 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function, and they are essential for growth and development. They help stimulate skin and hair growth, maintain bone health, regulate metabolism, and maintain the reproductive system.

However, a high intake of omega-6 fatty acids can lead to an increase in inflammatory processes in the body, as they can be converted into pro-inflammatory substances. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the diet.

Dietary sources

Omega-6 fatty acids are found in large amounts in refined vegetable oils and in various foods that contain these oils. They are also present in meat and dairy products, especially from animals that have been fed with corn and soybeans.

Omega-6 fatty acids

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