It
is generally assumed that North Americans need not worry about getting
enough fat of any kind, but as research unfolds, a fatal flaw in
this thinking is revealed. Not all fats are damaging to health. Some
fats are protective, and two in particular are essential to life – they
are the essential fatty acids [EFAs], linoleic acid (omega-6) and
alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).
EFAs cannot be made by the body, thus must be supplied through the
diet. Changes in our food over the last several years have jeopardized
both the quantity and balance of these nutrients. Our current dietary
pattern provides excessive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids in relation
to omega-3 fatty acids.
EFAs
are necessary for the formation of healthy cell membranes, the
proper development and functioning of the brain & nervous
system, and for the production of hormone-like substances called
eicosanoids. These regulate numerous body functions including blood
pressure, blood viscosity, immune and inflammatory responses. They
can improve skin and hair, reduce blood pressure, aid in prevention
of arthritis, lower cholesterol & triglyceride levels, reduce
risk of blood clot formation and reverse many common illnesses and
diseases today.
Join us on our journey into the discovery on EFAs. Remember, they
are called Essential because without them we would die.
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