Omega-6 fatty acids are a group of fats. Some are found in vegetable oils, including corn oil, safflower oil, and soybean oil. Other types of omega-6 fatty acids are found in black currant seeds, borage seeds, and evening primrose oil.
Omega-6 fatty acids are used for many conditions, but the best information science can provide so far is that arachidonic acid, a specific type of omega-6 fatty acid, does not improve growth and development in children. There is not enough research on omega-6 fatty acids to determine whether they are effective for other purposes.
Omega-6 fatty acids are used to reduce the risk of heart disease, lower total cholesterol, lower bad cholesterol (LDL), raise “good” cholesterol (HDL), and reduce the risk of cancer.
Most of the information we have about omega-6 fatty acid supplements comes from studies of specific omega-6 fatty acids or vegetable oils that contain omega-6 fatty acids.
How do omega-6 fatty acids affect the body?
There is not enough information to know how omega-6 fatty acids work.
Uses and Effectiveness
It may not be effective for:
-Improving growth or mental development in babies. Adding arachidonic acid (a type of omega-6 fatty acid) to infant formula does not appear to improve mental development in babies up to 18 months of age.
- Multiple sclerosis, or MS. It appears that consuming omega-6 fatty acids does not prevent the progression of MS.
There is insufficient evidence for:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Early research suggests that taking a combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids twice daily for 3 to 6 months does not relieve symptoms of ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in most children.
- Eyelid swelling due to problems with the oil glands in the eyelids. Early research shows that taking a specific product containing omega-6 fatty acids once daily for 180 days, along with cleaning the eyelids, may reduce eye fog, blocked oil glands, and eyelid swelling in people with blepharitis.
- Growth coordination disorder (DCD). Early research suggests that taking a combination of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for three months may improve reading, spelling, and behavior in children with BDD, but has no effect on coordination and movement.
- Laser eye surgery. Early research shows that taking pills containing omega-6 fatty acids along with beta-carotene and other ingredients may improve tear production and speed up the healing process of the eyes after laser eye surgery.
- Reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
- Increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels.
- Reduce the risk of cancer.
- Other disorders.
More evidence is needed to assess the effectiveness of omega-6 fatty acids for these conditions.
Omega-6 Fatty Acid Side Effects and Safety
Omega-6 fatty acids are likely safe when consumed as part of the diet for adults and children over 12 months of age and in amounts of about 5 to 10 percent of total daily calories. However, there is no reliable information on whether omega-6 fatty acids can be used as medicine.
Warnings Precautions
*Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Omega-6 fatty acids are easily absorbed and can be included in the diet at a level of 5 to 10 percent of daily calories. There is not enough information on the safety of taking omega-6 fatty acid supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is best to err on the side of caution and avoid taking these supplements during this time.
* High Triglycerides (a type of cholesterol): Omega-6 fatty acids can increase triglyceride levels. If you have high triglycerides, do not use omega-6 fatty acids.
Drug Interactions
We currently have no information regarding drug interactions for omega-6 fatty acids.
Dose
The correct dosage of omega-6 fatty acids depends on several factors such as age, health, and several other conditions. There is currently not enough scientific information to determine the appropriate dosage of omega-6 fatty acids. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe for everyone, and your dosage may be important. Be sure to follow the directions on product labels and consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before using any dietary supplement.
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