Question

Two unsaturated fatty acids are also called as "essential fatty acids" because:
1. They can be produced by the body as well as supplied from the diet.
2. The body cannot produce therefore it becomes essential that we get them from the food we eat.
3. The body cannot produce in sufficient amounts therefore it should be supplied from the diet
4. They are produced by the body

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : The body cannot produce therefore it becomes essential that we get them from the food we eat.

Two unsaturated fatty acids—linoleic and α-linolenic acids are termed essential fatty acids because humans must obtain them from their diets. Both substances are

required for normal growth and development, but the human body does not synthesize them.

1. The body uses linoleic acid to synthesize many of the other unsaturated fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, a precursor for the synthesis of prostaglandins.

2. In addition, essential fatty acids are necessary for the efficient transport and metabolism of cholesterol.

3. The average daily diet should contain about 4–6 g of essential fatty acids.

Fatty Acids	Structural Formula	Source
linoleic acid	C17H31COOH	Canola oil
α-linolenic acid	C17H29COOH	Flax-seed