![Essential Fatty Acids](http://oakwaynaturals.myshopify.com/cdn/shop/collections/essential_fatty_acids.webp?v=1722921521&width=750)
Essential fatty acids, or EFAs are considered essential because the body cannot make them. This means they must be obtained from our diet or through supplementation. A healthy diet contains a balance of the two EFAs: omega-3s and omega-6s. Omega-6s are fairly abundant in the typical American diet; however, the omega-3s are not. It is the omega-3s that contain the fatty eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are very important for heart health. Additionally, omega-3s are responsible for the normal functioning & development of the brain, and critical for the healthy growth of the fetus in pregnant women.
For more information about essential fatty acids, see Dr. Gittins' article, How Important is Fish Oil? by clicking here or his article, How Long-Term Inflammation is Hurting You Now by clicking here.