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Essential fatty acids (vitamin F) lessen cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reducing the threat of blood clot formation and lowering blood cholesterol in atherosclerosis, thus preventing heart disease. They are needed by the glands, especially the adrenals, for proper functioning. This vitamin is also required for healthy skin, mucous membranes, metabolism, and growth. It enables the cells to absorb calcium and phosphorous.
Essential fatty acids also protect from radiation and help prevent arthritis. Beneficial for candidiasis, cardiovascular disease, eczema, and psoriasis. Found in high concentrations in the brain and aids in transmitting nerve impulses. Needed by every living cell for rebuilding and producing new cells. Used by the body in the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like elements that regulate various processes.
Vitamin F Sources
Vitamin F (also called polyunsaturates) is a fat-soluble vitamin. It consists of the essential unsaturated fatty acids (“essential” because the body cannot make them, yet they are vital to normal functions). The body needs 10 to 20 percent of its total calorie intake in essential fatty acids (EFA) daily. The most essential of them is linoleic acid. The two primary types of EFA are omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 includes alpha-linoleic and eicosapentaenoic acid. They are found in fish (unfortunately, most are now caught in polluted waters; the best sources are flaxseed and walnut oil Omega-6 includes linoleic acid and gamma-linoleic acids.
Sources are raw nuts, seeds, legumes, and unsaturated vegetable oils (grape seed oil, borage oil). Considering its lower cost and high levels of both omega-3 and -6, the best single source of EFA is raw, fresh, cold-pressed flaxseed oil. Other high-level sources are generally more expensive.
Vitamin F Cautions
Very important! The source of supply must be fresh, raw, and cold-pressed. It cannot be labeled “hydrogenated oil.” Other inferior sources (due to the commercial processing they undergo) include soy oil, sunflower seed oil, and corn oil. Never use cottonseed oil; it can damage the optic nerve. Do not use safflower oil. Avoid hardened (solid) vegetable oil (margarine or butter) or animal fat. They only clog the system and help you die younger. For the EFA to be used by the body, the oil must be consumed in pure liquid or supplement form and not be subjected to heat in processing or cooking. Heat immediately destroys essential fatty acids, changing them to dangerous free radicals.
Vitamin F Deficiency Symptoms
Skin disorders include rashes, acne, eczema, and dry skin. There are kidney, prostate, menstrual, and other reproductive disorders. It also impairs the ability to learn and recall information.
Vitamin F Dosage
National Research Council says the diet should include “essential unsaturated fatty acids to the degree of at least one percent of the total calories.” Recommended: At each meal, the therapeutic dose would consist of at least one teaspoon of raw, fresh, cold-pressed wheat germ or flaxseed oil.
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REFERENCES
Vance Ferrell, Harold M. Cherne, M.D. 2010. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia. Altamont : Harvestime Books, 2010. pp. 107, 108. Vol. Seventh.