Questions: How are essential fatty acids different from other fatty acids (ie. Why are they essential)? DHA, AA, and EPA are also essential fatty acids. How does the body make those? What are functions of essential fatty acids in the body? What are food sources of omega-6 fatty acids? What are food sources of omega-3 fatty acids?

1. Essential fatty acids help maintain healthy skin cells, nerves, and cell membranes.

2. Essential fatty acids are different from other fatty acids because the human body cannot synthesize them. They must be obtained through the diet. These include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for various bodily functions, including maintaining cell membrane integrity and producing signaling molecules.

3. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), AA (arachidonic acid), and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are not considered essential fatty acids in the strictest sense because the body can synthesize them from other essential fatty acids. For instance, DHA and EPA can be synthesized from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid, while AA can be synthesized from linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid. However, the conversion rates are generally low, so direct dietary intake is often recommended to ensure adequate levels.

4. Essential fatty acids have several functions in the body, including:

   • Supporting cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
   • Playing a critical role in brain function and development.
   • Contributing to the health of skin and hair.
   • Being involved in the production of eicosanoids, which are signaling molecules that help regulate inflammation and immune function.

In summary, essential fatty acids are vital for maintaining various physiological functions, and they must be obtained through diet due to the body's inability to synthesize them. DHA, AA, and EPA are derived from essential fatty acids, and they play significant roles in maintaining health, particularly in the brain and cardiovascular systems.