Module 06: Fatty Acid Balance

Question 1

State the Big Ideas for Fatty Acids.

Answer 1

1. Healthy Fatty Acid deficiency is epidemic:
   - Musculoskeletal issues
   - Endocrine issues
   - Cardiovascular Issues
   - Immune issues
   - Allergies, Skin problems
   - Depression, etc.
2. Inflammation can be effectively managed with nutritional therapy, therefore reducing healing time.

Question 2

Name the two Fatty Acids that are essential to the body.

Answer 2

There are two poly unsaturated fats absolutely essential:

• Linoleic Acid (LA) - Omega 6
• Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA) - Omega 3

There are four other fats that are conditionally essential:

• Gamma-linolenic Acid (GLA)
• Arachidonic Acid (AA)
• Eicosapentaenic Acid (EPA)
• Docosahexanoic Acid (DHA)

Question 3

List 4 rolls of fat in the body.

Answer 3

~Provides a source of energy
~As building blocks for cell membranes and hormones
~Aiding the absorption of the fat soluble vitamins: A, D, E, K
~Aids the proper use of proteins (cell membranes)
~Serving as the protective lining for the organs of the body
~Helps regulate energy absorption by slowing the absorption of food
~Increases satiety
~Makes food taste good (Everything taste better with butter)

Question 4

Explain the impacts of a diet low in omega-3 and omega-6 Fatty Acids to the healing process.

Answer 4

The initial response to an injury or illness by the Innate Immune system is Inflammation. One factor initiating inflammation is pro-inflammatory PG2 prostaglandins that are derived from Arachadonic Acid (AA). When the initial inflammatory response is no longer needed, the “anti-inflammatory” prostaglandins (PG1 & PG3) are necessary to reduce inflammation back to the non-inflammatory state to continue the healing process. Diets low in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids fail to supply the needed ingredients to form PG1 and PG3 prostaglandins, thus the healing process is compromised encouraging a chronic inflammatory condition.

Question 5

Identify the three primary cofactors you need to consider when balancing Prostaglandin formation.

Answer 5

~Proper digestion
~Proper liver function
~Enzymes (including Delta-6-Desaturace)
     - Amino Acids
     - Vitamin B6
     - Magnesium
     - Zinc

Question 6

Describe and perform the Functional Evaluation for Fatty Acid deficiency.

Answer 6

ORAL pH: (pH below 7.2 is a good candidate for EFA sup’s)

FATTY ACID TEST (Repeated Muscle Challenge)