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Wednesday, July 10, 2013

What Foods Contain Omega 6?

Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that can not be made by the body. Because they are vital for a health, you must get them through diet or by taking supplements. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids aid brain functions, body development and growth.

Omega-6

    A deficiency of omega-6 can lead to dermatitis, fertility problems and immunity suppression. Diets low in omega-6 are rarely a problem in Western countries. According to the University of Maryland, people generally suffer from an imbalance of too much omega-6 and too little omega-3. This imbalance can lead to inflammatory diseases. That being said, it is still important to take a look at your diet to see where you get your omega-6 intake and too make sure you aren't getting too much.

Linoleic Acid

    Linoleic acid can be found in vegetable oils. This acid is converted in the body to make gamma-linolenic acid and then broken down further to make arachidonic acid. You can get arachidonic acid directly from eating meat products. Gamma-linolenic acid can be consumed by taking supplements of primrose oil, black current seed oil and borage oil. A diet high in meat can cause a build up of too many arachidonic acids, which can lead to high blood pressure, inflammation and allergic reactions.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid

    A high intake of gamma-linolenic acid can reduce inflammation and provide relief to allergies, ADHD, diabetes, eye disease and high blood pressure. Hemp and fungi oils are other foods that contains gamma-linolenic acid.

Arachidonic Acid

    Arachidonic acid is capable of a mixed bag of healthy attributes and problems. This acid can cause inflammation and pain, yet can also help ease anorexia nervosa and possibly tuberculosis. Foods with arachidonic acid include organs from animals, meats, shell fish, and egg yolks. Depending on your condition, make sure you are getting enough or less of this acid.

Omega-6 in Western Diets

    The University of Maryland estimates that Americans get 10 times the amount of linoleic acid that we need by consuming a diet rich in oils like soybean, corn, sunflower, safflower and cottonseed. Many processed and prepared food products have these oils. Take a look at bags of chips, cookies or crackers and see for yourself the ingredient list. Try to pick foods with gamma-linolenic acid or take supplements for a healthy body.

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