Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids, which include omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, are considered "good" fats. They play a critical role in the formation of cell membranes, proper brain development and function, and the regulation of various body functions including blood pressure, immune responses, and inflammation.
Omega-6 fatty acids are found in abundance in processed foods. As a result, Western diets are typically much too high in omega-6 fatty acids.
Maintaining the proper balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids is important for good health. Although experts disagree on what that balance should be, most believe we should be getting somewhere in the neighborhood of a 3-to-1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Most Americans get closer to a 20-to-1 ratio.
Omega-6 fatty acids cause inflammation, while omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation. An imbalance of fatty acids can lead to conditions that result from inflammation, like heart disease, cancer, asthma, and arthritis.
See also Fats.
Health Benefits of Omega-6 Fatty Acids
| Joints | Relieve the pain and inflammation of arthritis. |
| Menstruation/PMS | Relieves symptoms of PMS. |
| Skin | Relieves acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema. |
Food Sources of Omega-6 Fatty Acids
| Walnuts | 10761 mg | N/A | Contain a healthy ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. |
| Sunflower Seeds | 6454 mg | N/A | |
| Pumpkin Seeds | 5849 mg | N/A | |
| Pecans | 5828 mg | N/A | |
| Almonds | 3408 mg | N/A | |
| Avocado | 2668 mg | N/A | |
| Cashews | 2179 mg | N/A | |
| Amaranth | 1842 mg | N/A | |
| Flax Seed Oil | 1715 mg | N/A | |
| Olive Oil | 1318 mg | N/A | |
| Flax Seeds | 828 mg | N/A | |
| Black Olives | N/A | N/A | |
| Hemp | N/A | N/A | Contains a healthy ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. |