Essential fatty acids (EFAs) Fatty acids that cannot be constructed within an organism from other components (generally all references are to humans) by any known chemical pathways; and therefore must be obtained from the diet.

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Ramiro Bean

Biology

2 February, 02:23

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) Fatty acids that cannot be constructed within an organism from other components (generally all references are to humans) by any known chemical pathways; and therefore must be obtained from the diet.

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Keith Hayes · Answer 1

Essential fatty acids are necessary for certain functions that the body cannot synthesize, so they must be obtained through diet. It is polyunsaturated fatty acids with all double bonds in cis position. The only two essential fatty acids for humans are α-linolenic (18: 3ω-3) and linoleic (18: 2ω-6). If these are supplied, the human body can synthesize the rest of the fatty acids it needs.