Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6): 10 Research-Backed Benefits & One Side-Effect
Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid.
Linoleic acid is essential for the synthesis of various hormones. Some that are vital for the regulation of blood clots, blood pressure, blood lipid levels, immune function, inflammation, pain and fever, and reproduction.
High intake and high levels of linoleic acid in the blood are associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Linoleic acid also has an important role in our skin health.
Side effects of elevated levels of linoleic acid are that it can mediate inflammation.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of linoleic acid (18:2 n-6) that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about linoleic acid (18:2 n-6) named What Is Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6)
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of linoleic acid (18:2 n-6).
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Cardiovascular Disease
About this claim
Cardiovascular disease is something to avoid if possible. There are nutrients that might have the ability to aid in the quest of keeping your cardiovascular system healthy.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Cell Health
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Diabetes And Insulin Resistance
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Diabetes And Insulin Resistance
About this claim
Diabetes and insulin resistance are both medical conditions. According to research are some nutrients an essential part of a healthy lifestyle when you have diabetes. Some nutrients are called diabetic friendly. They do not raise glucose levels.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 24 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Hormones
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Hormones
About this claim
Keeping your hormones healthy is key to an overall good health. Research is telling us about key nutrients that can help us achieve healthy hormones in balance.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
5. Hypertension
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Hypertension
About this claim
Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure. It’s one of the most relevant cardiovascular risk factors. Some nutrients might positively affect your blood pressure. Nutrients can have a vital role in blood pressure control, according to research.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 10 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
6. Immune System
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Immune System
About this claim
Our body's immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. Consuming enough right nutrients in your diet is required for the health and function of all immune cells, according to research. Specific nutrients might help with modulating your immune system for it to work at its best.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
7. Infant Development
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Infant Development
About this claim
Infants are children between 0-1 years of age. Some nutrients are essential for infants. They are necessary to lay the foundations for lifelong health. The most crucial nutrients for infants will they obtain from breast milk. When an infant doesn't breastfeed, it's crucial to make sure the child gets all the nutrients it needs.
Research sources for this claim
- Linoleic Acid - an overview ◳
- growth and development in infants
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
8. Inflammation
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Inflammation
About this claim
Consuming foods that are bad for you can cause chronic inflammations. Research shows some nutrients that might be beneficial for you when battling inflammation. Some nutrients possess inhibitory and anti-inflammatory functions.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 47 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
9. Reproduction
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Reproduction
About this claim
Reproduction is when organisms replicate themselves. Research shows that some nutrients can be beneficial in the process of reproduction.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 9 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
10. Skin Health
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Skin Health
About this claim
Your skin needs the right kind of nutrients to stay healthy. What’s going on in the inside shows on the outside. Research is telling us that what you eat can make an enormous difference in how your skin looks and feels. It can also have an impact on common skin conditions and even the risk of skin cancer.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 22 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
Research-Backed Side-Effects Of Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6)
These are some of the potential research-backed side-effects of linoleic acid (18:2 n-6).
1. Inflammation
Linoleic Acid (18:2 n-6) - Inflammation
About this claim
Consuming foods that are bad for you can cause chronic inflammations. Research shows that all nutrients might not be useful for you. Some might give you or make your inflammation worse.
Research sources for this claim
- Effects of linoleic acid on inflammatory response depend on genes ◳
- Linoleic Acid: A Nutritional Quandary ◳
You are welcome to explore 47 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.