What is it about omega-6 fatty acids that can help your body to keep going, right through your senior years? According to the Colorado research team, it all has to do with a process called “autophagy.” Unfamiliar with the phrase? Autophagy is something that happens in your cells. Basically, when a cell becomes unnecessary or dysfunctional, autophagy kicks in and one of two things happen: 1) a redundant cell is broken down and its components are recycled to use elsewhere; or 2) as is the case with dysfunctional cells, autophagy breaks the cell down completely so that it isn’t able to cause any problems inside your body.
PLUS: Omega-3 health benefits.
Now, back to the study where the researchers uncovered some amazing news about omega-6 fatty acids. Not only do these fatty acids play a very important role in energy storage, but it’s now clear that they also help trigger autophagy, helping to lengthen your life span.
Make sure you get some healthy omega-6 fatty acids into your diet if you want to live a long and productive life. One note of caution: make sure you balance your intake of omega-6s with omega-3 fatty acids.
Sources for Today’s Articles:
A Fat That Makes You Live Longer?
Han, M., et al., “Fat chance for longevity,” Genes Dev. February 15, 2013; 27(4): 351–4.