| Essential Fatty Acids and Cholesterol Metabolism |
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Essential fatty acids are divided into two basic sub types of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Although EFAs perform a number of biological functions, their role in reducing heart disease has brought them into a high degree of attention. These two types of fatty acids reduce the levels of LDL (low density lipoprotein) in the blood. LDL cholesterol is bad fat that tends to be deposited in the arteries in the form of a plaque. By lowering LDL cholesterol, EFAs help to reduce arterial plaque deposit. EFAs are found in food groups such as fatty fish, shellfish, whole grain cereals, oilseeds, butter and dried fruits such as walnuts and peanuts. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna besides other varieties, are a rich source of Omega3 fatty acids. At least two servings of fatty fish are recommended by the American Heart Association, per week, It is a popular and mistaken notion that fats are bad for health, Not all fats are bad. Saturated fats and Trans fats are not good for you. On the other hand, polyunsaturated fatty acids or EFAs are an essential component that we should source from the food that we eat. Related Articles |