Health Notes

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Also indexed as:Safflower Oil, Sunflower Oil, Arachidonic Acid
Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Main Image

Side Effects

One of the omega-6 fatty acids, arachidonic acid, can be used by the body to make substances that are inflammatory, increase blood clotting, or constrict blood vessels.16, 17 A controlled study showed that a low arachidonic acid diet provided some relief to people with rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory disease.18 However, studies of the effect of arachidonic acid on heart disease risk factors have found either no effect or a beneficial effect of higher arachidonic acid intake.19 More research is needed to determine the effects of arachidonic acid on different diseases.

Since arachidonic acid can be made from other omega-6 fatty acids, some authorities have theorized that reducing the consumption of all omega-6 fatty acids might help prevent or relieve inflammatory diseases and other conditions, such as heart disease, that are associated with certain arachidonic acid by-products.20, 21 However, production of arachidonic acid from other omega-6 fatty acids appears to be quite limited.22 Also, gamma-linolenic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that the body can use to make anti-inflammatory substances.23, 24 Finally, preliminary studies have found that blood measures of inflammation are actually lower in people with higher omega-6 intake,25, 26 and preliminary and controlled studies suggest that high omega-6 intake prevents cardiovascular disease.27 Overall, there appears to be benefit, not risk, in consuming omega-6 fatty acids other than arachidonic acid.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.