Some fatty acids are essential to the health of the body as it needs certain of these to maintain good health. Research has shown that EFAs positively affect the body s internal functions, including circulation, blood pressure, inflammations, joint integrity, and the immune system. EFAs are also used by the body to produce powerful, hormone-like compounds called Prostaglandins, which regulate cellular activity. Over 30 different Prostaglandins have been isolated, each with highly specific functions. These functions range from muscle tone to circulation to ensuring oxygen availability to the tissues.
Prostaglandins have a very short life-span, which is why the body needs an abundant supply of EFAs.
There are several types of essential fatty acids. Omega-3s are extremely important as they comprise thirty percent of certain membranes in nerve cells in the brain. Omega-6 fatty acids affect the balance and equilibrium of the body. The omega-6 fatty acids are primarily plant derived oils and the best sources are Borage Oil and Primrose Oil. Excerpt from lecture by Dr. Steven Whiting, Director, Institute of Nutritional Science Reproduced with permission.