What are essential fatty acids and why are they necessary for health?

What are essential fatty acids and why are they necessary for health?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Omega-3 and omega-6; must be consumed; sources fish, flaxseed, walnuts
• C. Only saturated fats
• D. Fiber

Answer: (B)

Essential fatty acids are the omega-3 and omega-6 fats that our bodies cannot make in adequate amounts, so they must come from the diet. They’re necessary because they help build cell membranes and act as precursors to signaling molecules that regulate inflammation, heart health, and brain and visual development. Good dietary sources include fatty fish (which provides EPA and DHA directly) and plant sources like flaxseed and walnuts (which provide the omega-3 precursor ALA, though conversion to EPA/DHA is limited). The other options aren’t fats the body must obtain: carbohydrates are a separate energy source, saturated fats are not required by the body, and fiber is a non-fat component that aids digestion.

Essential fatty acids are the omega-3 and omega-6 fats that our bodies cannot make in adequate amounts, so they must come from the diet. They’re necessary because they help build cell membranes and act as precursors to signaling molecules that regulate inflammation, heart health, and brain and visual development. Good dietary sources include fatty fish (which provides EPA and DHA directly) and plant sources like flaxseed and walnuts (which provide the omega-3 precursor ALA, though conversion to EPA/DHA is limited). The other options aren’t fats the body must obtain: carbohydrates are a separate energy source, saturated fats are not required by the body, and fiber is a non-fat component that aids digestion.