What are fatty acids and what do they offer to the body?

Fatty acids, and more specifically unsaturated fatty acids, are a category of nutrients that are essential for the proper functioning of the body.

To be more precise, there are monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids:

Monounsaturated fatty acids, also known as omega-9 fatty acids, are naturally present in the body
Polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are often also referred to as essential fatty acids, must be obtained through the diet, since our body cannot synthesize them. Nevertheless, their role in the structure of cell membranes is crucial, and so is their importance.

✅ But what do they help with?

Their best-known actions are supporting the normal function of the heart, the brain, and the eyes! However, we should also know how important a role they play in other functions of the body.

Unsaturated fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects, so we often see them recommended for pain in the joints or even in rheumatoid arthritis!

In addition, omega-3 fatty acids contribute to blood clotting, loss of fat tissue and increase in muscle mass in athletes, reducing the risk of developing certain types of cancer, as well as type 2 diabetes.

Now, omega-6s contribute to the reduction of total cholesterol while helping with the development of healthy hair and skin and contributing to the regulation of metabolism. Finally, omega-9 fatty acids contribute to all of the above and a little more to the proper function of the heart, while when omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are at low levels in the body, omega-9s act as a substitute.