Omega-6 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. They are in the same family as omega-3, and are found in many foods such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. In this article, we will learn about the benefits of Omega 6 for the body.

About omega 3 6 9 fatty acids

Many people wonder about this name; What does omega mean? What is the difference between Omega 3, Omega 6, and Omega 9?

Omega is the last letter of the Greek letters, and its symbol is “Ω.” As for the numbers, they do not indicate anything confusing, but have chemical indications only in the composition of the acid itself based on carbon atoms and double bonds.

Unsaturated fatty acids have many health benefits, and omega-6 is considered one of the essential fatty acids, meaning that the body cannot manufacture it on its own, and must derive it from food or nutritional supplements.

What are the benefits of omega 6?

There are many benefits of fatty acids, including omega-6, and the following are the most important of these benefits:

Benefits of omega 6 for hair

In a study published several years ago aimed at evaluating the relationship between hair loss, prescribing nutritional supplements containing omega-3, omega-6, and types of antioxidants for a period of 6 months; The results showed the efficiency of these supplements against hair loss and improving its density.

Benefits of Omega 6 for the skin

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have been tested for the effect of these fatty acids on various skin conditions and diseases in many studies, which have shown conflicting and inconclusive results. However, supplements containing both omega-3 and omega-6 appear to show potential in reducing inflammation. Hence, it may be useful in skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and it may also have a role in treating acne.

Other omega 6 benefits

There are beliefs that there are other benefits of Omega 6, but these benefits still lack scientific evidence, and need more studies according to what was mentioned in the sources. The following are the most prominent of these benefits:

• Benefits of Omega 6 for the heart: Most studies indicate that increasing omega-6 consumption does not reduce the risk of heart disease or other related diseases, and although there is evidence of this benefit, these claims still need to be confirmed.
• Benefits of Omega 6 for children: Omega-6 is thought to play a role in fetal development and growth, brain development, and vision, but this belief lacks supporting evidence. It is also believed to have a role in treating hyperactivity in children, treating developmental dysfunction, or reducing diarrhea, but preliminary studies indicate that omega-6 has no role in treating these disorders.
• Omega 6 benefits for blood pressure: Although eating adequate amounts of omega-6 reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure, excessive intake is associated with high pressure in diabetics.

Some people believe there is Omega 6 benefits for weight lossHowever, studies on humans and animals prove the opposite, as eating large amounts of it is associated with weight gain, unlike omega-3, which reduces the risk of obesity.

Suggested doses of Omega 6

With conflicting information about the importance and harm of omega-6, the recommended dose is summarized as follows:

• Women between 19 and 50 years old: 12 grams per day, and from the age of 51 and older, the dose is 11 grams.
• Men between 19 and 50: 17 grams per day, and 14 grams for those over 51.

Omega 6 damage

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Omega-6 is considered safe for pregnancy and lactation as long as you take it in the prescribed doses. However, you should not over-eat Omega-6, as it may increase the risk of eczema, or the birth of a small-sized baby.
• It may affect patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and it may exacerbate symptoms.
• It may increase the possibility of developing high blood pressure for diabetics, if it is consumed in large quantities.
• May increase triglyceride levels.

Where is Omega 6 found?

The following are the most important food sources of Omega-6 and its quantity according to the type of food source:

The amount of omega-6 in fruits and seeds

Per ounce (28 grams):

The amount of Omega 6 in oils

Per tablespoon:

• Grape seed oil: 9.5 grams.
• Corn oil: 7.3 grams.
• Cottonseed oil: 7 grams
• Walnut oil: 7.2 grams.
• Soybean oil: 6.9 grams.
• Sunflower oil: 8.9 grams.

Other food sources

• Tofu: 3 grams per half cup.
• Margarine: 3.4 grams per tablespoon.
• Mayonnaise: 5.4 grams per tablespoon.