Essential fatty acid refers to two long-chain fatty acids namely: linoleic and linolenic.
They cannot be synthesized by the body and must be provided in the diet. They serve
as precursors of a group of hormones like substances called prostaglandins. These
fatty acids are known to cure dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) and to restore the
growth of young animals that have been fed on a diet very low in fat.
1. Linolenic acid
This is an 18 –carbon fatty acid with three double bonds. Mammals cannot synthesize
it. It has no anti-dermatitis effects but does promote growth.
2. Linoleic acid
This is an 18-carbon fatty acid with two double bonds. It cannot be produced by the
body and therefore must be provided by diet. It restores growth and prevents
dermatitis. Linoleic acid can be converted to arachidonic acid and therefore
arachidonic acid is not strictly considered an essential fatty acid. In the absence of
linoleic acid, arachidonic acid becomes essential. Arachidonic acid is a 20-carbon
polyunsaturated fatty acid with 4 double bonds. It prevents dermatitis but does not
promote growth. Essential fatty acid deficiency is not common in people consuming
normal diets but it is likely to occur in communities with very low fat/milk intake.
Titany answered the question on November 5, 2021 at 10:07
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