Ironing out wrinkles of EFAs

Scientists continue to research the impact of essential fatty acids on our health and the health of our skin. A 2005 report in the Journal of Lipid Research investigated the impact of dietary omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on the sun-induced connective tissue damage that causes skin to become wrinkled and aged. Researchers found that EPA might be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of skin aging. Dietary EPA is available in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.

Alternatively, researchers in Arizona determined in 2005 that increased levels of the omega-6 EFA arachidonic acid in the membranes of red blood cells were associated with increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma. Arachidonic acid is found in meat and dairy products.