Essential fats for future health. Proceedings of the 9th Unilever Nutrition Symposium, 26–27 May 2010

Abstract

the dietary recommendations for essential fatty acids (EFA); discuss the scientific evidence for the roles of EFA in cognition, immune function and cardiovascular health; and to identify opportunities for joint efforts by industry, academia, governmental and nongovernmental organizations to effectively improve health behaviour. This paper summarizes the main conclusions of the presentations given at the symposium. Linoleic acid (LA) and a-linolenic acid (ALA) are EFA that cannot by synthesized by the human body. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is considered as conditionally essential because of its limited formation from ALA in the human body and its critical role in early normal retinal and brain development and, jointly with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), in prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Some evidence for possible beneficial roles of n-3 fatty acids for immune function and adult cognitive function is emerging. A higher consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA; 410%E), including LA, ALA and at least 250-500 mg per day of EPA þ DHA, is recommended for prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD). Two dietary interventions suggest that EFA may affect CVD risk factors in children similarly as in adults. To ensure an adequate EFA intake of the population, including children, public health authorities should develop clear messages based on current science; ensure availability of healthy, palatable foods; and collaborate with scientists, the food industry, schools, hospitals, health-care providers and communities to encourage consumers to make healthy choices.

Inadequate Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intakes in Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: Data from a Seven-Day Weighed Dietary Record

“…Regarding monounsaturated FA intakes, the LARN recommendation (12-15% of total EI) was not reached for almost 50% of the study week. Low polyunsaturated FA intake has been associated with various disorders [35]. A clear guideline for this intake for patients on dialysis does not exist; therefore, we refer to the LARN recommendations.…”

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): An Ancient Nutrient for the Modern Human Brain

“…It has been proposed that DHA be considered at least “conditionally essential” [31]. Indeed, there is evidence that small amounts of only EPA and DHA can reverse omega-3 deficiency [20].…”

Different Dietary Protein and PUFA Interventions Alter the Fatty Acid Concentrations, but Not the Meat Quality, of Porcine Muscle

“…Selected monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have a number of health benefits. The majority of the health benefits have been associated with n -3 PUFAs [10]. Several studies have investigated the effects of dietary PUFA (18:3 n -3, linolenic acid; 18:2 n -6, linoleic acid) source, mainly linseed, rapeseed or sunflower supplements, on pig performance and the fatty acid composition of pig tissues.…”