TITLE:
The Impact of the Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) in Human Health
AUTHORS:
Alberto Krayyem Arbex, Vagner Rosa Bizarro, Julio Cesar Salles Santos, Lis Marina Mesquita Araújo, Ana Luísa Conceição de Jesus, Minelli Salles Alves Fernandes, Marcela Miranda Salles, Denise Rosso Tenório Wanderley Rocha, Aline Marcadenti
KEYWORDS:
Fatty Acids, Linoleic Acid, Alpha-Linolenic Acid, Cardiovascular Health, Trans Fatty Acids
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases,
Vol.5 No.7,
July
29,
2015
ABSTRACT: Linoleic (LA) and α-linolenic acids (ALA) are
considered essential fatty acids (EFA) because they are not produced by the
human body. This way, EFAs sources must come from the diet. The primary dietary
source of n-3 fatty acids is ALA, found in seeds and seed oils. Other important
sources are fish oils such as tuna, salmon and herring. Currently, numerous
studies suggest possible benefits of essential fatty acids in human health,
such as in cardiovascular, cognitive and eye health, and also during pregnancy
and childhood. This paper also discusses the impact of fatty acids in human
metabolism, and the available evidence regarding its risks. It addresses the
relevant debate regarding a general ban of trans fatty acids (TFA) from the
world food market, because of the cardiovascular risks associated with its
consumption.