What are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), and why are they important?
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids constitute the two families of EFAs. EFAs are considered “essential” because they are needed throughout the human life cycle, cannot be manufactured in the human body, and therefore they must be obtained through our diet on a daily basis for optimal health and wellness. The body must receive a constant and balanced supply of EFAs to ensure proper prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are beneficial hormone-like compounds that affect virtually every system in the body. They regulate pain and swelling, help maintain proper blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and promote fluidity in nerve transmission.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids constitute the two families of EFAs. EFAs are considered “essential” because they are needed throughout the human life cycle, cannot be manufactured in the human body, therefore they must be obtained through our diet on a daily basis for optimal health and wellness. The body must receive a constant and balanced supply of EFAs to ensure proper prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are beneficial hormone-like compounds that affect virtually every system in the body. They regulate pain and swelling, help maintain proper blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and promote fluidity in nerve transmission.
