Importance of a balanced omega 6/omega 3 ratio for the maintenance of health: nutritional recommendations.

Paper Abstract

The modification of dietary patterns has led to a change in fatty acid consumption, with an increase in the consumption of u03c9-6 fatty acids and a marked reduction in the consumption of u03c9-3 fatty acids. This in turn has given rise to an imbalance in the u03c9-6/u03c9-3 ratio, which is now very different from the original 1:1 ratio of humans in the past. Given the involvement of u03c9-6 and u03c9-3 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 u03c9-3 essential fatty acids, and to study the importance of the u03c9-6/u03c9-3 balance in maintaining good health. In addition, an assessment is made of the established recommendations for preventing a poor intake of u03c9-3 essential fatty acids, and the possible options for compensating the lack of these fatty acids in the diet.