Without linoleic acid, the skin becomes red and irritated, and we are more susceptible to infectious and dehydration. Without linolenic acid, the body cannot manufacture essential hormone-like substances which regulate many body functions, including blood pressure. Our problem is, we get too much fat, far more than we need. Excess fat in the diet has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and certain cancers. In Westernized cultures, we get an overabundance of fat from our style of eating that is heavy on processed convenience foods, large meat portions, plenty of butter, cheese, and fried foods while simultaneously light on whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and fruit.
Malabsorption refers to abnormal or impaired digestion, absorption, or both.
Malabsorption can begin with any organ or tissue that contributes to the digestive or absorptive process. Malabsorption includes conditions that result in decreased or inadequate functioning of the GI tract. In the case of fat, the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and small intestine all play a part in digestion. Early symptoms of malabsorption include a change in bowel habits, fatigue, apathy, and a smooth surface on the tongue. Maintaining good nutrition is a difficult challenge in these cases and individuals are often undernourished.