There is even an old medical school mnemonic device that addresses this: "Len is your friend," meaning
alpha-linolenic acid is anti-inflammatory, while linoleic acid has a more complicated relationship with the body.
06% Table I:
Alpha-linolenic acid content in plant-derived oils
Terrestrial plants contain the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid and the omega-3 fatty acid
alpha-linolenic acid but not the long-chain metabolites arachidonic acid, or EPA and DHA.
Previous studies have shown that omega 3 fatty acids, such as the
alpha-linolenic acid found in walnuts and flax seeds, can reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (the undesirable kind).
Flaxseed oil is one of the best sources of the essential omega-3 fatty acid,
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which helps support overall heart health.
They were randomly assigned use of one of four margarines on bread instead of their regular spread -- one containing no extra omega-3 fatty acids; one with 400 milligrams a day of extra eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA); one with 2 grams of
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA); and one with a combination of EPA-DHA and ALA.
I am one of the best sources of
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) - the plant form of omega-3 fatty acids.
These products are enriched by feeding animals flax seed or canola, which are sources of omega-3 fatty acids in the form of
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Walnuts are richest in
alpha-linolenic acid, a heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acid.
Studies suggest that
alpha-linolenic acid (found in animal fat, vegetable oils and nuts) is associated with a heightened risk, while linolenic acid, found in vegetable oils, protects against prostate cancer.
Watch your fats - studies suggest that
alpha-linolenic acid (found in animal fat, vegetable oils and nuts) is associated with a heightened risk.
The first is a fish and flax blend rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
