The smallest member of the moega-3 fatty acids is alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid that is the building block for all other longer chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Alpha-linolenic acid, the parent acid of the n-3 fatty acid series is the only n-3 fatty acid that is an essential fatty acid meaning that it cannot be made by the body and must be obtained through the diet.
The major health benefits of flaxseeds are derived from their alpha-linolenic acid content. Nuts and seeds also are among the bests sources of alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acids that can help treat rheumatoid, arthritis, psoriasis and hypertension.
There was a study, the higher level of alpha-linolenic acid in breast tissue, the less likely the cancer was to spread into the lymph nodes of the armpit.
Alpha-linolenic acid is necessary for the healthy structure and functioning of cells. Alpha-linolenic acid reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and help reduce risk of heart attacks.
Alpha-linolenic acid: health benefits
