Omega-6 fatty acids, such as gamma linolenic acid, are a family of fats found in some plant oils and seeds. They are different from omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-6 fatty acids are found everywhere in the body. They help with the function of all cells. But too much omega-6 fatty acids can change the way cells react and have harmful effects on cells in the heart and blood vessels.
People use omega-6 fatty acids for heart disease, child development, high cholesterol, cancer, diabetes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
There are different types of omega-6 fatty acids, such as gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Also, some supplements are used as sources of omega-6 fatty acids, such as evening primrose, borage, and black currant. See separate listings for these topics.
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