Linoleic Acid (LA):
LA is found in processed foods, margarine, and vegetable oils. LA helps improve skin conditions. It may also be partially converted to GLA in the body (see more on GLA below). The typical North American diet includes an excess of LA, so we do not need to worry about supplementation with this fat.
Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA):
ALA is found primarily in Flax seed oil and is also found in black currant oil. The positive effects of ALA have been documented in areas including high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, immune system function, male infertility and cancer. The body also converts a portion of ALA into two other fatty acids, EPA and DHA.
Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA):
A healthy body may derive some GLA from LA. The richest natural source of GLA is borage (also known as starflower) Oil. GLA is also found in black currant and evening primrose oils. The body uses GLA to produce eicosanoids that are highly anti-inflammatory, dilate blood vessels, and reduce blood clotting. GLA is popularly used by women.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid & Docosahexaenoic Acid
(EPA and DHA):
These two difficult-to-pronounce fatty acids are responsible for the beneficial effects of fish oils. EPA produces eicosanoids that have many beneficial effects in the body. Research demonstrates that fish oils containing EPA and DHA have therapeutic benefits in many areas including cancer.
Arachidonic Acid (AA):
AA is necessary for the infant brain development and small amounts are required for overall fetal development. However, it is not generally deemed a "good" fat, because, in excess, AA may have some harmful effects. AA is produced in the body from LA (see above). It is also found in meat, eggs, and some shellfish. The body uses AA to produce a class of eicosanoids that are strongly pro-inflammatory, constrict our blood vessels, and increase the possibility of blood clotting. These compounds are very useful when you accidentally cut yourself.