Which statement identifies linoleic (n-6) as essential fatty acid?

Which statement identifies linoleic (n-6) as essential fatty acid?

• A. Linoleic (n-6) is not essential
• B. Linoleic (n-6) is essential and can be synthesized by the body
• C. Linoleic (n-6) is essential fatty acid
• D. EPA and DHA are synthesized exclusively from linolenic (n-3)

Answer: (C)

Linoleic acid must come from the diet because the body cannot make it in adequate amounts. This makes it one of the essential fatty acids, required to support cell membranes, skin health, and the production of signaling molecules. The idea that linoleic is not essential is incorrect, since without dietary linoleic the body wouldn’t meet its needs. Saying it’s essential and can be synthesized by the body is also incorrect—essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the body at all in sufficient amounts. The statement about EPA and DHA being synthesized exclusively from linolenic is inaccurate because, although the body can make some EPA and DHA from linolenic acid, the conversion is limited and these fats are also obtained directly from the diet.

Linoleic acid must come from the diet because the body cannot make it in adequate amounts. This makes it one of the essential fatty acids, required to support cell membranes, skin health, and the production of signaling molecules. The idea that linoleic is not essential is incorrect, since without dietary linoleic the body wouldn’t meet its needs. Saying it’s essential and can be synthesized by the body is also incorrect—essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the body at all in sufficient amounts. The statement about EPA and DHA being synthesized exclusively from linolenic is inaccurate because, although the body can make some EPA and DHA from linolenic acid, the conversion is limited and these fats are also obtained directly from the diet.