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ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS OMEGA-6 The are two groups of Essential Fatty Acids (EFA): Omega-6 and Omega-3. OMEGA-6 EVENING PRIMROSE OIL is a good source of the Omega-6 essential fatty acid GLA. Taking GLA (as opposed to Linoleic Acid, see below) may cause a relative increase in the good prostaglandins (PGF-1) without causing an increase in the "bad" prostaglandins (PGF-2). The main benefit for Multiple Sclerosis patients of taking GLA supplements is due a decrease in inflammation and destruction of myelin. Linoleic Acid (LA) is the "parent" Omega-6 EFA. The liver converts Linoleic Acid into Gamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA). GLA is the building block for the PGF-1 family of chemical regulators. Linoleic Acid can also be converted into another compound (Arachidonic Acid) that is the parent of PGF-2. Use the EFA Site Map to see more information on Prostaglandins. The Omega-6 EFA produce both PGF-1 and PGF-2. Many health problems relate to deficiency of the Essential Fatty Acids. For reasons discussed in the following sections. Absolute deficiency of Omega-6 EFA is uncommon. However, supplementation can still be beneficial in a number of conditions. |