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What Is Linolenic Acid?

Linolenic acid, 18:3, is an essential polyunsaturated conjugated fatty acid. Essential means that we must obtain it from our diet because our body requires it for good health but cannot synthesize it.

Linolenic acid tends to occur at much lower levels in the tissues of the body than linoleic acid.

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Linolenic Acid Is Essential

18:3, Linolenic acid is an essential fatty acid. (source πŸ——)

The body cannot synthesize linolenic acid and therefore must be supplied by the diet. (source πŸ——)

Linolenic acid is needed to synthesize eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexenoic acid (DHA). (source πŸ——)

Linolenic Acid In Omega 3 And 6

Linolenic acids are found in both omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) in this fatty acid family. Linolenic acid can be called the parent. N-6 is called gamma-linolenic acid, and n-3 is called alpha-linolenic acid. (source πŸ——)

Where To Find Linolenic Acid

Linolenic acid is mainly found in plant sources such as nuts and seeds. (source πŸ——)

If you are interested in a list of foods where you can find this nutrient. Go to our nutrition tool and check out linolenic acid.

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Sara NiemelΓ€

co-founder Care Omnia, Head Content Creator

I’m a wife and a mother of three. I enjoy the outdoors, cooking, and spending time with my family. Nutrition is my passion. I have spent thousands upon thousands of hours reading, analyzing, categorizing and comparing research studies. Nutrition is the foundation you build a healthy and fulfilling life upon!