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FATS AND PROSTAGLANDINS
Prostaglandin's are extremely powerful and affect every aspect of our health
as they have hormone-like effects. This means they are chemical messengers that
cause catalytic reactions within the organs and cells of your body. Your body
can manufacture prostaglandins all from essential fatty acids as they are products
of enzyme-controlled oxidation of highly unsaturated fatty acids. They are short-lived
chemicals that regulate cellular activities.
Prostaglandins fall into three families (series) depending on which fatty acid
they are made from. Series 1 and 2 come from the W6 family and have the essential
fatty acid linoleic acid as their starting material. Series 3 are made from
the W3 family with the essential fatty acid alpha linolenic acid as the starting
material. Again you will see just how critical that it is that you consume enough
daily quantities of these essential fatty acids for the efficient and optimal
functioning of your system.
Functions
Series 1
Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) keeps blood platelets from sticking together and therefore
prevents heart attacks and strokes. It also helps remove sodium and excess fluid
and may even slow down cholesterol production. It allows the hormone insulin
to work more effectively, improves nerve function and promotes the functioning
of T-cells.
Series 2
PGE2 also helps stop blood platelets from sticking together. PGE2 promotes platelet
aggregation, induces kidneys to retain salt leading to water retention and high
blood pressure. They are therefore bad prostaglandins.
Series 3
These are made from Eicoscipentaenoic acid which limits PG2 production. It is
found in fish oils which explains why fish oils can prevent degenerative cardiovascular
changes, water retention, and inflammation caused by excessive PG2s.
Health
Healthy humans make the prostaglandins they need from the essential fatty acids
Linoleic Acid and Alpha Linolenic Acid. Prostoglandin production from fatty
acids however requires vitamins C, B3 and B6 and the minerals zinc and magnesium.
By providing the body with these and oil supplements of essential fatty acids
your body will be given the material it needs to make its own supply of good
prostoglandins and hormones.
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