Mammals cannot synthesize the two main types of polyunsaturated fatty acids: the linoleic (omega-6) and linolenic (omega-3)
Essential fatty acid deficiency is characterized by dermatitis and poor wound healing
Most prostaglandins are synthesized from arachidonic acid (a linoleic acid derivative)
Lack of these prostaglandins causes some aspects of the essential fatty acid deficiency syndrome
A small daily intake of linolenic acid is recommended (this may be especially important when the nervous system is developing)
Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) – omega-3 fatty acid is needed for maximum development of the visual and central nervous systems during the neonatal period (it is present in large amounts in the retina and parts of the brain; it enhances the visual response and the function of certain domains in neural membranes)