The slow discovery of the importance of omega 3 essential fatty acids in human health

J Nutr. 1998 Feb;128(2 Suppl):427S-433S. doi: 10.1093/jn/128.2.427S.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Child
  • Fatty Acids / blood
  • Fatty Acids / classification
  • Fatty Acids, Essential / deficiency*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / administration & dosage*
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / metabolism
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-6
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated / administration & dosage
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Liver / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nutrition Disorders / diet therapy*
  • Nutrition Disorders / etiology
  • Nutrition Disorders / metabolism
  • Nutritive Value

Substances

  • Fatty Acids
  • Fatty Acids, Essential
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-6
  • Fatty Acids, Unsaturated