I had a slew of blood tests done as part of the initial assessment with my preventative health doctor. One of the tests was to for my GLA (Gamma-linolenic Acid) levels. It turns out they are at 0! My doctor reassured me that this is the norm for women. Apparently women’s bodies gobble up this EFA (essential fatty acid). So he now has me adding GLA to my diet (Life Extension Mega GLA with Sesame Lignans) as a supplement. It is important to have a healthy balance of GLA, along with other EFAs.
GLA is the essential omega 6 fat that is found in evening primrose, black currant seed, and borage oil. It has anti-inflammatory properties unlike most omega 6 fats. According to Dr. Mercola, even though it is an omega-6 fat, it is one of the only ones that many people seem to benefit from by taking it in supplement form.
Because a deficiency of GLA might be a factor in PMS researchers have studied supplementing with GLA as a potential way to reduce PMS symptoms.
Benefits of GLA
(see source for more details) :
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Heart problems (like atherosclerosis)
- PMS De-Stressor
- Immune Booster
- Cholesterol Reducer
- Arthritis Reliever
- MS Halter
- Diabetic Stopper
Also note that trans fats hinder the catalyst needed for the GLA transformation. Another tip from my doc – Avoid Trans Fats emphatically!!
To YOUR health,
Kim
