OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS Overview Information
Omega-6 fatty acids are types of fats. Some types are found in vegetable oils, including corn, evening primrose seed, safflower, and soybean oils. Other types of omega-6 fatty acids are found in black currant seed, borage seed, and evening primrose oils.
Omega-6 fatty acids are used for many conditions, but so far, the best information that science can provide is that putting arachidonic acid, a particular omega-6 fatty acid, doesn’t improve infant development. Not enough research has been done on omega-6 fatty acids to judge whether or not they are effective for other uses.
Omega-6 fatty acids are used for reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering total cholesterol levels, lowering “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels, raising “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels, and reducing cancer risk.
Most of the information we have on omega-6 fatty acid supplements comes from studying specific omega-6 fatty acids or plant oils containing omega-6 fatty acids. See the separate listing for evening primrose oil.
How does it work?
There isn’t enough information available to know how omega-6 fatty acids work.
Possibly Ineffective for:
- Improving mental development or growth in infants when arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid) is used in infant formula.
- Reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Lowering bad cholesterol levels (LDL).
- Increasing good cholesterol levels (HDL).
- Reducing the risk of cancer.
- Other conditions.
OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS Side Effects & Safety
There isn’t enough information available to know if omega-6 fatty acids are safe to use as medicine.
Special Precautions & Warnings:Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of omega-6 fatty acids during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
High triglycerides (a type of cholesterol): Omega-6 fatty acids can raise triglyceride levels. Don’t use omega-6 fatty acids if your triglycerides are too high.
OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS Dosing
The appropriate dose of omega-6 fatty acids depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for omega-6 fatty acids. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.