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The Slow Discovery of the Importance of omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids in Human Health

Ralph T. Holman

The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Austin, MN 55912

Although linoleic and linolenic acids have been known to be necessary for normal growth and dermal function since 1930, the omega 3 essential fatty acids (EFA) have not received much attention until recently. The two families of acids are metabolized by the same enzymes, making them competitive. Gross deficiencies of omega 6 plus omega 3 EFA have been observed in humans, induced by attempts at total parenteral nutrition (TPN) with preparations devoid of lipids. Deficiency of omega 3 acids has been induced by TPN containing high omega 6 and low omega 3 fatty acids. In natural human populations, a wide range of omega 3 and omega 6 proportions have been found, ranging from high omega 3 and low omega 6 content to low omega 3 and high omega 6 content, showing inverse correlation between Sigma omega 6 and Sigma omega 3. In humans with neuropathy or impairment of the immune system, significant deficits of omega 3 EFA have been measured.

Key words: essential fatty acids, (omega 6 and omega 3) polyunsaturated fatty acids, metabolism, requirements, human deficiencies.

The Journal of Nutrition Vol. 128 No. 2 February 1998, pp. 427S-433S
Copyright ©1998 by the American Society for Nutritional Sciences




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