5 - Health benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)

Abstract

Essential and non-essential Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids [“PUFAs”] are integral components of cell membrane phospholipids and serve as precursors to a group of hormone-like inflammatory mediators, called the eicosanoids. Recent research has demonstrated the ability of the long chain PUFA to regulate cell metabolism at the nuclear level by acting as modulators of a range of transcription factors. This impact on gene regulation is thought to provide in part the metabolic link between dietary PUFA intake, health, and the progression of chronic diseases. Reduction of saturated fats in the diet and trans fatty acids are associated with a significant improvement in the blood lipid profile. There is substantial evidence from animal trials and accumulating evidence from observational and intervention studies in humans to suggest that such a strategy would also be associated with improved insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal.