Linolenic Acid
Lipids/Fats
Type:
Essential Fatty Acids
Forms/Names:
Alpha-Linolenic Acid, Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid (EFA), Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid
Functions:
Primary omega-3 fatty acid and must be supplied by food Needed for the body to synthesize eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) May help to prevent and treat heart disease, hypertension, arthritis, and cancer
Deficiencies:
Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) deficiencies (although rare) may result in growth retardation, reproductive failure, skin lesions, kidney and liver disorders, and subtle neurological and visual problems
Recommended Intakes:
0.5-0.9 g/day for infants and young children; 1.0-1.1 g/day for women and children ages 9-13; 1.4 g/day for pregnant women; 1.2 g/day for males ages 9-13; 1.6 g/day for males over 14 years of age
Food Sources:
Flaxseed, canola, soy, tofu, walnuts