Have you ever heard of vitamin “F”? At first, you might think it is a real vitamin, but the reality is quite different.
According to the Cleveland Clinic in the United States, vitamin “F” consists of two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA).
اضافة اعلان
Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid, while linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid.
Scientists discovered these two types of fatty acids in the 1920s and initially, and mistakenly, believed they were a type of vitamin, which led them to call them vitamin “F.” The name continued to be used even after their true nature as fatty acids was established, according to CNN Arabic.
What Are Its Benefits?
The Cleveland Clinic explained that research into vitamin “F” is still ongoing, but its main potential benefits include:
Supporting heart health: Consuming vitamin “F” may help maintain heart health and protect against certain health problems, such as coronary heart disease. It may also help lower blood cholesterol levels.
Supporting infant development: Eating low-mercury fish during pregnancy and breastfeeding may support fetal growth and brain development.
Supporting brain health: Vitamin “F” may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive problems.
Improving mental health: Consuming fatty acids may help improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Supporting eye health: Vitamin “F” may help with retinal development and function, including reducing symptoms of dry eye. It may also lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Relieving rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Vitamin “F” may help reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis when taken alongside medications prescribed to treat the condition.
Supporting skin health: Vitamin “F” found in skincare products, such as oils and creams, helps moisturize the skin and may contribute to treating acne, dryness, and wrinkles. Fatty acids may also help maintain the skin’s protective barrier, which could benefit conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Resource: Al-Ghad.
