ABSTRACT
Research on the role of omega-3 fatty acids in growth and development and in health and disease has expanded over the past 15 years. In the human body, both essential fatty acids are metabolized to longer chain fatty acids of 20 and 22 carbon atoms, increasing the chain length and degree of unsaturation by adding extra double bonds to the carboxyl end of the fatty acid molecule. The hydrogenation process led to another problem; it not only decreased the alpha-linolenic acid, but also led to increased production of trans fatty acids. Dietary manipulation of essential fatty acids leads to complex interactions and the displacements of the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in both plasma and cellular lipids. A number of animal studies support the antiatheromatous actions of omega-3 fatty acids. In dogs, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids prevented intimal hyperplasia despite their diet that was high in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol.
