Abstract

GOMEZ CANDELA, C.; BERMEJO LOPEZ, L. M.ª  and  LORIA KOHEN, V.. Importance of a balanced omega 6/omega 3 ratio for the maintenance of health: Nutritional recommendations. Nutr. Hosp. [online]. 2011, vol.26, n.2, pp.323-329. ISSN 1699-5198.

The modification of dietary patterns has led to a change in fatty acid consumption, with an increase in the consumption of ω-6 fatty acids and a markerd reduction in the consumption of ω-3 fatty acids. This in turn has given rise to an imbalance in the ω-6/ω-3 ratio, which is now very different from the original 1:1 ratio of humans in the past. Given the involvement of ω-6 and ω-3 essential fatty acids in disease processes, the present article examines changes in dietary patterns that have led to the present reduction in the consumption of ω-3 essential fatty acids, and to study the importance of the ω-6/ω-3 balance in maintaining good health. In addition, an assese-ment is made of the established recommendations for preventing a poor intake of ω-3 essential fatty acids, and the possible options for compensating the lack of these fatty acids in the diet.

Keywords : Dietary omega 3 fatty acids; Balanced omega 6/omega 3; EPA; DHA.

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