es.
Linoleic acid is classified as essential: the body needs it but cannot
make it, so it must be supplied in the diet. Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is synthesized
from linoleic acid, and from GLA the body makes a very important hormone-
like substance called prostaglandin E1 (PGE1). PGE1 helps to prevent
heart attacks and strokes, helps to remove excess fluid, improves circulation,
slows down cholesterol production, improves nerve function, and regulates
cell division (Crisafi 1992). PGE1 is anti-inflammatory: it is vital to maintaining
a healthy balance in our joints, helping to prevent inflammation and pain.
Groups of arthritis sufferers have shown significant improvement after taking
GLA supplements (Belch 1985; Kendler 1987). GLA has also been found to be
an important nutrient for the prevention of certain skin disorders, such as psori26
asis (Ziboh and Fletcher 1992); and it appears to alleviate premenstrual syndrome
(PMS) (Horrobin 1983).