|  | Diet Nutrition | Vitamins

Benefits of Omega 6

Omega-6 fatty acids are one of the two groups of essential fatty acids that the body requires. The body can't produce them, so you have to eat the proper foods to get the amounts of it you need to support proper body functions and cell development and growth. Omega-6 acids also have an important role in the function of the brain, bone health, metabolism and reproduction. They benefit the body's regular functions and promote health and healing.

  1. Facts

    • Omega-6 fatty acids are often thought of as pro-inflammatory. This isn't good for those with arthritis, who generaly avoid it because it will cause pain in the joints. But according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, inflammatory properties may support a healthy immune system. Omega-6 protects healthy skin, hair and nails, and reduces bloating and pain related to premenstrual syndrome. The University of Maryland Medical Center also lists its importance in the treatment of several diseases. Omega-6 is abundant in vegetable cooking oils such as canola oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, and soybean oil. It's not found in olive oil.

    Function

    • As reported by Healthline.com, omega-6 is vital to the body's internal processes: regulating pressure in the blood vessels, joints and eyes; transporting oxygen from red blood cells to tissues; managing proper kidney function; dilating or constricting blood vessels; regulating muscles and reflexes; and keeping the heart pumping with energy.

    Diabetes

    • Omega-6, in the form of gamma-linolenic acid, has been used to lower symptoms in diabetics. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, GLA has helped improve nerve function and prevent nerve disease in diabetics.

    Rheumatoid Arthritis

    • It seems one form of omega-6 breaks away from the pack as an anti-inflammatory. GLA relieves some symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness, as stated by the University of Maryland Medical Center.

    Skin Disease

    • Omega-6 is known for keeping skin healthy. It has been used to treat skin diseases such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. According to HealthyPlace.com, omega-6 has shown to relieve some symptoms of eczema such as redness, itching, and scaling. As for acne and psoriasis, as stated by the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-6 helps in healing the areas of the skin with lesions.

    Osteoporosis

    • Deficiencies of any essential fatty acid can lead to osteoporosis. Bones need omega-6 to maintain and increase bone mass. The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that omega-6 can help strengthen bones by helping bones absorb calcium.

Vitamins - Related Articles