Linoleic acid benefit and side effects
Linoleic acid is an unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid with an 18-carbon chain and two cis double bonds; the first double bond is located at the sixth carbon from the omega end. Compare this to linolenic acid.
The consumption of omega-3 (n–3) and omega-6 (n–6) essential fatty acids in Western diets has changed during the 20th century. The availability of linoleic acid (LA) increased from 2.8% to 7% of energy, whereas the availability of α-linolenic acid (ALA) increased from 0.39% to 0.72% of energy. Data show substantial declines in dietary availability (percentage of energy) of n−6 arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Predicted net effects of these dietary changes included declines in tissue n--3 highly unsaturated fatty acid status. The apparent increased consumption of LA, which was primarily from soybean oil, has likely decreased tissue concentrations of EPA and DHA during the 20th century.* Received October 26, 2010.* Accepted February 1, 2011.
We are constantly being told to take and eat foods with
omega 3's, etc. I have been taking a well known omega 3-6-9 complex that
contains alpha linoleic acid 200mg and 50 mg linoleic acid from flax oil, and
125mg of linoleic acid from borage oil. However, I just read an article in
Hammer Nutrition Endurance newsletter dealing with good and bad effects of
cholesterol. This article cites some research detailing negative effects of
linoleic acid- linking oxidizing of blood cholesterol with cardiovascular
disease, and linoleic acid as a cause. Also, risks of stroke, inflammatory bowel
disease, cancer tumors etc. as being linked to excess linoleic fatty acid
intake. What thoughts & info do you have on this? Are the above amounts
excessive? Would it be better to stick to fish oil and stay away from flax and
borage?
Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid and most Americans
consume too much of this fatty acid compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Hence, I
don't see the need to take additional amounts through supplements.