Why You Should Be Getting More GLA Omega-6 In Your Diet
If you have ever heard of the term “omega fatty acids” before, you have more than likely heard it as it is referred to when it comes to omega 3 fatty acids in particular. Omega 3 fatty acids are known and praised by nutritionists and healthcare professionals alike for their ability to improve healthy brain function, and are often commonly found in foods such as chia seeds, olive oil, and salmon, in addition to many other types of fish. However, you may be surprised to learn that there is more than one type of omega fatty acid.
Omega 6 fatty acids are the other fatty acid you are probably unfamiliar with, yet are also the ones that are more commonly consumed by people, even unknowingly. Omega 6 fatty acids are found in many foods, including eggs, poultry, and many oils such as soybean oil, corn oil, and even safflower oil.
If you have heard anything about omega 6 fatty acids, it may have been how studies are showing that many people are getting too many of them in their diet. For the most part, this is true, but there is one omega 6 fatty acid that is crucial to preserving your health and preventing many health issues, and it is known as gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Remember that name, because, as I found out from an article by Life Extension Magazine, GLA’s are truly remarkable and beneficial for everyone’s health.
GLA’s are most notable for their ability to fight off inflammation in the body. This allows GLA’s to also combat many signs and symptoms of aging, in addition to more than a few diseases and health conditions that are so often commonly linked to the aging process. In particular, scientific studies have shown that GLA’s are capable of reducing the risk of developing such illnesses and diseases as eczema, asthma, obesity, chronic inflammation, arthritis, dermatitis, diabetes, and even cancer. The anti-inflammatory capabilities of GLA’s are what makes them so great for preventing health issues later on in life.
So where can you get more of these super good for you GLA’s? You can find them in a wide variety of food sources, from eggs to flaxseed, probiotics, and even apple cider vinegar. If you don’t like these foods, or you are unable to eat them for any reason, check with your doctor to see if adding a GLA supplement into your diet may be right for you and your health needs.