|
The Role of the Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3s)
|
- The enzymes which act as catalysts in prostaglandin production include elongase (which elongates the carbon chain by adding carbon atoms), and delta-6-desaturase and delta-5-desaturase (which both desaturate the carbon chain by removing hydrogen atoms).
- The health of delta-6-desaturase enzymes are dependent upon sufficient amounts of B6, magnesium and zinc. Deficiencies in any of these nutrients (NB - all of these deficiencies are commonly found in asthmatics - link to B6, magnesium and zinc) can hinder the omega-3 and omega-6 pathways.
- Likewise, the delta-6-desaturase enzymes are inhibited by stress, disease, increased insulin levels (as found in high carbohydrate diets), trans fatty acids (like those found in margarine), saturated fats, and alcohol.
- Delta-5-desaturase enzymes are responsible for the conversion of dihommo-gamma-linoleic acid (DGLA) into arachidonic acid (omega-6 pathway), and eicosatetraenoic acid into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA;omega-3 pathway). Delta-5-desaturase enzymes require sufficient levels of vitamin C, niacin (B3), and zinc. They also are activated by increased insulin levels.
- It is suggested that deficiencies in any one of the following - vitamin C, niacin (B3), pyroxidine (B6), zinc, or magnesium - would result in a decrease in the enzyme conversion of essential fatty acids, and would therefore result in an increased state of inflammation in the body.
|
The Road to Wellness 
