Fatty acids are a type of lipid found in both animals and plants. Fatty acids are molecules made up of chains of carbon atoms bonded with hydrogen atoms. They are also known as long-chain fatty acids due to the length of their chains. Fatty acids come in two forms, saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fatty acids are chains that are full of hydrogen atoms and are known as ‘full’ fatty acids. Unsaturated fatty acids, on the other hand, are not full and thus have one or more double bonds in their chain.
Fatty acids, and the lipids they are part of, are a vital component of all life. Many of our bodily functions are dependent on the fatty acids they produce. For example, the body needs fatty acids to help create hormones, aid in brain development, and to form cell membranes. Similarly, fatty acids are also necessary for plants, as they form an important component of the cell membrane and can help provide energy to the plant.
Despite how important fatty acids are, not all fatty acids are equal. Certain fatty acids are categorised as essential fatty acids because without them our health can deteriorate. Essential fatty acids are divided into two main categories, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Both types of fatty acids need to be consumed in order to maintain proper health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily found in cold-water seafood such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, as well as some plant sources like flaxseed and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for a number of reasons. They help reduce inflammation, have a positive effect on heart health, and help reduce the risk of cancer and other diseases. Studies have also shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve mood and cognitive functioning, as well as help with the healing of wounds.
Omega-6 fatty acids tend to be found in vegetable oils, whole grains, and many plant-based sources such as nuts, seeds and legumes. Omega-6 fatty acids are also important, as they help regulate metabolism and support the immune system. However, it is important to stick to a balanced diet as it can be easy to consume too many omega-6 fatty acids.
Many foods today are fortified with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in order to provide the body with the essential nutrients it needs to remain healthy. However, diets high in processed foods can lead to an imbalance of the two types of fatty acids. Therefore, it is important to monitor your diet and aim for a balanced consumption of the two types of fatty acids for optimal health.
Fatty acids can be described as the building blocks of life. While all fatty acids are important, maintaining a proper balance between essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is also essential in order to ensure a healthy lifestyle. It is important to consume fatty acids from both animal and plant sources in order to get the nutrients your body needs.
