Fatty acids are produced from the synthesis of fats and lipids in the body. These fats are necessary for sustaining the bodily functions such as digestion; respiration etc. depending on the structure of the molecule,
fatty acids can be divided into saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. The body requires both the types of fatty acids though in different amounts. It is usually the unsaturated fatty acids that are considered to be healthier than the saturated fatty acids.
The body can produce most of the fatty acids except two important types. These are called essential fatty acids. These essential fatty acids can be obtained from external sources.
Fatty acids are present in vegetable oils and many plant sources. Some examples include coconut oil, olive oil, palm oil, safflower oil and wheat germ oil corn oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil etc. The role of fatty acids in contributing to the health of the human body has been under study for a long time.
Fatty acids have a close connection with the function of the brain. The brain contains a large amount of alpha linoleic as well as linoleic acids which are fatty acids. A good balance between these two is essential for mental balance and normal functioning of day to day brain related activities. However studies have revealed that an imbalance results in varied brain related disorders. Depressions, violence, decrease in the ability to concentrate and poor memory.
Omega 3 and omega 6
fatty acids are more important to the body than the other classes of fatty acids. These are directly absorbed into the blood stream usually through the villi or the tiny hair that line the intestine. When an optimum amount of omega 3 fatty acids or its supplements are given to the patient, a marked increase in memory retention, concentration and briskness is observed. The mechanism which results in these behavioral changes is yet to be seen.
Fatty acids also play an important role in the formation as well as the destroying of cardiac cells. Indirectly, this implies that the functions of the heart too depend on the right intake of fatty acids.
Deficiency of
fatty acids usually does not cause severe harm. But there are certain fatty acids called essential fatty acids. These acids cannot be synthesized by the body. When the intake from the external sources is not sufficient over a prolonged period of time, the body shows symptoms of deficiency of
fatty acids. These can range from obesity, growth retardation in children, impaired memory function, abnormal blood cell flexibility, hypertension and menopause related disorders. More reports suggest a connection between Alzheimer’s and omega 3 fatty acids deficiency.
A balanced diet is very important for maintaining a good life. If you feel that our diet does not contain the required amount of
fatty acids, you must ensure that this lack of fatty acids is made up with supplements. Many tablets and tonics when consumed regularly make up for this deficiency and help you in maintaining a healthy and a happy life. Check with your doctor before start taking any of these supplements for right dosage.
