Fatty acids and their importance for your health

Erythrocyte fatty acid profile analysis is of significant interest in the field of nutrition and general health. This article looks at the benefits of fatty acids, their valuable role in functional biology, and the importance of the omega-3/omega-6 ratio for wellbeing.

What are fatty acids?

Fatty acids are essential components of lipids, playing a vital role in the structure and function of cell membranes. They are classified into several categories, including saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Among unsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6 are particularly important for human health.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are both essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, meaning that the body cannot synthesise them and must obtain them from the diet.

• Omega-3: found mainly in oily fish (such as salmon and mackerel), linseed, walnuts and rapeseed and hemp oils. They are recognised for their anti-inflammatory effects and benefits for cardiovascular and cognitive health.
• Omega-6: found in certain vegetable oils (such as corn and sunflower oil), nuts and seeds. Although they are also necessary for good health, an excess of omega-6 can promote inflammation if the ratio with omega-3 is not balanced.

Why analyse your fatty acid profile?

The membranes of erythrocytes (red blood cells) are rich in fatty acids, whose composition directly reflects dietary lipid intake over a period of several months. Analysis of these fatty acids enables us to assess an individual’s nutritional status, in particular his or her intake of essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6.

The ideal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 is important for maintaining a healthy balance in the body. An unbalanced ratio, typically too high in omega-6 relative to omega-3, can lead to increased inflammation and risk of chronic disease.

Benefits of essential fatty acids

Omega-3 and omega-6 play a crucial role in several physiological processes:

• Prevention of cardiovascular disease: omega-3s, in particular, are recognised for their ability to reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
• Regulation of inflammation: essential for protection against various diseases.
• Maintaining immune function: these fatty acids support the immune system by modulating inflammatory and immune responses.
• Balancing the female hormonal cycle: a good balance of fatty acids is crucial for hormonal health, influencing aspects such as the menstrual cycle and fertility.

Protection of cognitive capacity: omega-3s are particularly important for brain health and may protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

Imbalances in the erythrocyte fatty acid profile may be associated with various pathologies:

• Insulin resistance
• Metabolic disorders
• Hormonal imbalances
• Neurodegenerative diseases
• Functional biology applications

This analysis, carried out on its own or included in certain functional biology assessments (SopioCheck, ImmuCheck, VeggieCheck etc.), can guide personalised (micro-) nutritional recommendations and lifestyle advice. It can also be a marker of the proper functioning of key physiological processes, reflected by the integrity and functionality of cell membranes.

Focus on the role of omega 3 and omega 6

GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) and DGLA (dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid) are omega-6 fatty acids found in certain vegetable oils and known for their anti-inflammatory properties, aiding skin health and the management of inflammatory conditions. AA (arachidonic acid), another omega-6 found in meat and dairy products, is important for brain development and muscle function, but can also promote inflammation. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish, essential for reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health, the brain and vision.