Which fatty acids are considered essential because the body cannot synthesize them?

Which fatty acids are considered essential because the body cannot synthesize them?

• A. Linoleic acid and linolenic acid
• B. Oleic acid and palmitic acid
• C. Stearic acid and myristic acid
• D. Arachidonic acid and EPA

Answer: (A)

Essential fatty acids must come from the diet because the body cannot synthesize them in sufficient amounts. Linoleic acid (an omega-6) and linolenic acid (an omega-3) are the two that cannot be made by humans, so they must be consumed. From these two, the body can elongate and desaturate to form other polyunsaturated fats such as arachidonic acid and EPA, but this conversion is limited, which is why they’re not considered essential themselves. The other fats listed can be produced by the body or do not require dietary intake to meet basic needs. Oleic acid and palmitic acid are commonly synthesized by the body, and stearic and myristic acids are also not required to be eaten because the body can generate them from other fatty acids. Arachidonic acid and EPA are longer-chain products derived from the essential fatty acids, so they aren’t classified as essential on their own in normal dietary conditions.

Essential fatty acids must come from the diet because the body cannot synthesize them in sufficient amounts. Linoleic acid (an omega-6) and linolenic acid (an omega-3) are the two that cannot be made by humans, so they must be consumed. From these two, the body can elongate and desaturate to form other polyunsaturated fats such as arachidonic acid and EPA, but this conversion is limited, which is why they’re not considered essential themselves.

The other fats listed can be produced by the body or do not require dietary intake to meet basic needs. Oleic acid and palmitic acid are commonly synthesized by the body, and stearic and myristic acids are also not required to be eaten because the body can generate them from other fatty acids. Arachidonic acid and EPA are longer-chain products derived from the essential fatty acids, so they aren’t classified as essential on their own in normal dietary conditions.