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Not all fats are equal. Those called essential fatty acids (EFAs) are required
for our health and well-being. Our bodies cannot produce them, so we must get
them in our diet. They are essential in all functions and body systems. The two
kids of EFAs are based on linolenic and linoleic acids, better known as Omega-3
and Omega-6, respectively. Essential fatty acids are vital to the maintenance of
cell membranes, which is our first defense against bacterial infections. They
are essential for an effectively functioning immune system. They also have the
major role of forming hormone-like substances which control all body functions.
They help us to digest fats, thereby regulating the correct balance of saturated
fats and blood cholesterol in cells. Essential fatty acids are key building
blocks required for normal growth and energy.
Some certified organic oils are: flax, sunflower, hemp, sesame, pumpkin, borage,
and poppy. Olive oil is regarded as a healthy dietary oil because of its high
content of monounsaturated fat (mainly oleic acid) and polyphenols.
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