Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an essential fatty acid (EFA) in the omega-6 family that is found primarily in plant based oils. EFAs are essential to human health but cannot be made in the body. For this reason, they must be obtained from food. EFAs are needed for normal brain function, growth and development, bone health, stimulation of skin and hair growth, regulation of metabolism, and maintenance of reproductive processes.

Linoleic acid (LA), another omega-6 fatty acid, is found in cooking oils and processed foods and converted to GLA in the body. GLA is then broken down to arachidonic acid (AA) and another substance called dihomogamma-liolenic acid (DGLA). AA can also be consumed directly from meat, and GLA is available directly from evening primrose oil (EPO), black currant seed oil, and borage oil. Most of these oils also contain some linoleic acid.

Health-conscious people across the country are consuming flaxseed, pumpkin seed, fatty fish, and fish oils in record amounts to get the benefits of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Indeed, these good fats can have an amazing impact on health: the omega-3s have taken center stage for their beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, menopausal discomforts, immune system dysfunction and cancer.

In all the hype, many people have come to believe that omega-6 fats are bad and that only omega-3s are good. Yes, some omega-6s are bad when consumed in excess primarily linoleic acid, found in many vegetable oils, grains and seeds. But there is another fat in the omega-6 family which is a powerful key to vibrant health and radiant beauty: GLA, or gamma linolenic acid.

In fact, your body needs the right balance of omega-3s as well as Gamma Linoleic Acid from the omega-6 family, much like it needs the proper combination of vitamins and minerals for smooth-running metabolic functions. So if you’ve been primarily focusing on the omega-3 sources of good fats, you could very well be overlooking an amazing giant among nutrients namely GLA.

is available in softgel or bulk liquid forms at your local or internet discount vitamin store. Look for oils like evening primrose, borage, or flax seed in name brands like Barleans Oils, Source Naturals, and Solaray to ensure you receive a quality and pure product when making a purchase.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. GLA and its constituents are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.