Fatty Acids
When fats are broken down during digestion, they produce fatty acids. When there is excess glucose, it is stored as fat. When there is insufficient glucose to use for energy, the fats stored produce the acids are then absorbed by the blood stream to fuel your cells.
The acids that are produced from the fat in your body are either saturated or unsaturated. There are many types. But for your good health, proper functioning of your organs and immune system and to control many bodily functions, you need another type which is polyunsaturated acid or what is termed as essential fatty acids. These are the good fats. But your body cannot produce them. You have to obtain them directly from the food you eat.
The two types of EFAs are Omega 3 and Omega 6. They contain linolenic acid or ALA, eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA and docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. The main sources are plant or vegetables and cold water fish. All edible oils either from plants or animals contain fat. Some are good but some aren't. Fish oil and safflower oil are among the many good ones.
Because EFAs contain anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to get rid of cholesterol build-up in the arteries. EFAs reduce the risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and cancer. EFA helps in brain development and improves concentration. And it helps in weight control. Moods and behaviors are affected if EFA is deficient. And it can lead to depression. Among the other benefits are it helps keep your skin healthy. People with acne problems might want to consider taking EFA supplement as a treatment.
So these acids are important to your bodily function. But the trouble is, most people consume too much food containing trans-fat such as doughnuts, cookies and cakes. Trans-fats are bad fats and aren't necessary. They raise your "bad" LDL cholesterol and lower your "good" HDL cholesterol. You will increase your risk of coronary heart disease. And if you are living a sedentary lifestyle, you are only adding more risks to your health.
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