TREATMENT DATABASE

Essential fatty acids are fats (lipids) that are important in a number of physiological processes. They cannot be produced by the body and therefore must be obtained through dietary sources. Omega-9 fatty acids aren't strictly "essential," meaning they can be produced by the body. 

The two most important types of essential fatty acids are omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 fatty acids – alpha linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexanoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) – are found in fish oil (especially cold water fish) and flaxseed oil. Omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid, LA) are found in many plant oils, including evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant oil.

Essential fatty acids are vital to a number of physiological processes, such as regulating cholesterol levels, keeping the skin moist and supple, and producing prostaglandins (hormone-like substances that affect a variety of body functions). Essential fatty acids are also indispensable in maintaining the structure and function of cell membranes. Most important, essential fatty acids, particularly those found in fish oil, can act as immune system modulators, enhancing immune system activity where needed, and inhibiting it when there is an upregulated immune response.

Poor diet, stress, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, radiation, and viral infections can disrupt the metabolism of essential fatty acids, making it difficult for the body to produce fatty acid metabolites in sufficient quantities. In such cases, supplementation may be necessary to prevent deficiency states. Supplementation with essential fatty acids has improved such diverse conditions as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, hyperactivity in children, depression and mononucleosis.

Treatment rating for Omega 3-6-9 blend