Chemical definition of omega-6
The lipids that make up omega-6 form a hydrogen-bonded carbon chain consisting of several double bonds.
Those of omega-6 are at the level of the sixth carbon-carbon bond, hence the name omega-6.
The precursor of the omega-6 group is linoleic acid (LA).
It is this acid that enables the body to produce the other acids in the omega-6 family, such as arachidonic acid (AA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), gamma-linolenic acid (AGL) and di-homo-gamma-linolenic acid (ADGL).
Where can you find omega-6?
In addition to dietary supplements, omega-6 is usually found in vegetable oils such as:
- Primrose oil
- Gooseberry oil
- Hemp oil
- Borage oil
- Flaxseed oil
- Grape Seed Oil
- Sesame Oil
- Walnut Oil
- Peanut Oil
- Olive Oil
- Wheat Germ Oil
In addition to vegetable oils, omega-6 can also be found in:
- Flax seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Hemp seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Pistachios
- Pine Nuts
- Soya beans
- Olives
- Chicken
At the same time, other sources such as spirulina also contain high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).
Breast milk contains di-homo gamma linoleic acid (ADGL).
Finally, arachinoic acids (AA) are found in egg yolk and animal fat.
Nutritional recommendation
It is recommended to consume 5 servings of omega-6 for every 1 serving of omega-3.
Unfortunately, this ratio is not respected, especially in industrialised countries.
In fact, poor eating habits, particularly high calorie intake, tend to result in a high intake of omega-6 and a low intake of omega-3.
In these countries, a person consumes up to 8 portions of omega-6 and 1 portion of omega-3.
Presumed effects of omega-6
As an essential fatty acid, omega-6 is one of the basic nutrients for the proper functioning of the body.
If the dosage is respected, omega-6, like the other fatty acids in its category, acts as a messenger.
They play a role in the vasomotricity of the blood circulation, in the formation of blood platelets, in coagulation and in inflammation.
Their properties enable them to stimulate the body's immune system, protect the arteries of the heart and act as anti-inflammatories.
The synthesis of eicosanoids by arachnoidic acid (AA) also promotes wound healing and alleviates allergic reactions.
However, it is important to note that an excess of omega-6 can be very worrying for health, as it can lead to cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, obesity, diabetes and arthritis.
Indications
Omega-6s are used to boost the body's natural defences against pathogens.
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, they can be used to treat problems caused by inflammation, such as rheumatoid polyarthritis or arthritis.
Omega-6s can also be used to treat stress-related disorders and depression when these are of inflammatory origin.
At the same time, omega-6s can heal skin problems.
They can stop acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.
Their healing properties are particularly effective in the treatment of wounds.
On the other hand, their interaction with omega-3 makes it possible to prevent cardiovascular problems, in particular coronary heart disease and obesity.
Thanks to their benefits, omega-6s can be used in treatments for the prevention and cure of many diseases: diabetes, cancer, muscular diseases, hormonal disorders.
To date, no contraindications or side effects have been observed in relation to omega-6.
It should be noted, however, that its beneficial effects depend entirely on its interaction with other essential fatty acids, in particular omega-3.
If the ratio between these two nutrients is out of balance, the proper functioning of the body is disturbed, leading to disease.