Evidence supporting the use of: Linolenic acid
For the body system: Prostaglandins

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Linolenic acid—specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid—has scientific support for its role in the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like compounds involved in various physiological processes including inflammation, immunity, and vascular function. ALA is a precursor to longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which can be further converted to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins (specifically the series-3 prostaglandins, such as PGE3). Several studies have demonstrated that dietary intake of ALA and other omega-3 fatty acids can modulate the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory prostaglandins by competing with omega-6 fatty acids (such as linoleic acid) for the same enzymatic pathways. This competitive inhibition can potentially shift the prostaglandin profile towards less inflammatory states.

However, the conversion rate of ALA to EPA and subsequently to prostaglandins is relatively low in humans, and most evidence for prostaglandin modulation is stronger for EPA and DHA (derived from marine sources) than for ALA itself. Clinical trials have shown some anti-inflammatory effects of increased dietary ALA, but outcomes are variable and often less pronounced than with direct EPA/DHA supplementation. Overall, while there is scientific rationale and some supporting evidence for ALA's role in prostaglandin modulation, the strength of evidence is moderate and not as robust as for other omega-3 fatty acids.

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Products containing Linolenic acid

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