What is vitamin F?
Vitamin F or Omega 3 is composed of a mixture of two essential fatty acids: linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linoleic acid (LNA), to which is added arachidonic acid.
Vitamin F is not produced by the body but it is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it is stored in the body and released in small doses whenever necessary. Therefore, it is not necessary to take it on a regular basis, such as through foods.
Vitamin F is sensitive to heat and light, therefore in order to keep its quality, foods containing it should be protected from sunlight and eaten fresh or after being cooked for a short period of time.
What is the role of vitamin F?
Vitamin F or Omega 3 prevents atherosclerosis by preventing storage of triglycerides and cholesterol in the arteries. It also promotes weight loss and high hair and skin quality.
Which foods are rich in vitamin F?
Vitamin F or Omega 3 is mainly found in vegetable oils (sunflower, corn, peanut, and soy), fruit oils (almonds and walnuts) as well as in some types of fish.
What is the daily requirement of vitamin F?
The daily requirement of vitamin F or Omega 3 has not yet been identified. It is known however, that the need for unsaturated fatty acids increases in proportion to the amount of saturated fatty acids and carbohydrates consumed. Essential fatty acids should be taken at 1% of the total calories consumed.
Vitamin F deficiency
The lack of vitamin F is very rare; however, it can affect children and cause formation of dry skin and flaking of the skin itself.
Excessive vitamin F intake
There are no toxic side effects from excessive vitamin F intake.
