Practices... - Healthy Diet - Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Essential fatty acids help build nerve cells, synapse membranes, and the myelin sheath that covers most nerve fibres. They help transport and metabolize cholesterol and fats in the blood and stored fats in muscle tissue. These acids also form prostaglandins -- hormone-like substances that act as neuronal messengers in the body, facilitating proper nervous system, immune system, and cardiovascular function. In addition, EFAs transport vitamins, minerals, and other fat-soluble compounds required by your body and support proper immune system function.

EFAs come in two forms: omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid) and omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid). These fatty acids are not synthesized internally and must be obtained from your diet.

Essential fatty acids can be found in borage oil, evening primrose oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, hemp seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, fish, eggs, beans, and walnuts.

For more information, see Food Supplements -- Essential Fatty Acids.