Fatty Acids

Fatty acids are mainly found in vegetable seed oils. And not just in short supply: the plant kingdom has a total of 400 different fatty acids. However, fatty acids also occur as components of dairy or meat products.

As with amino acids, there are also essential compounds among fatty acids. The human body cannot produce these acids itself, but has to ingest them through food or through the skin. The organism needs them in order to produce lipids from them, which are particularly needed for the construction of cell membranes. Membrane forming lipids are the foundation of all cell formation and thus of all life. Since skin cells are sometimes exposed to harmful environmental influences, their membranes must be particularly well protected.

At the latest since a study by the German Nutrition Society (DGE) in 2010, polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as those found in large quantities in sunflower oil, are considered to be true health boosters: they significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Not only the blood vessels, but also the skin benefits from a supply of unsaturated fatty acids. Especially the essential linoleic acid, which belongs to the omega-6 fatty acid family and cannot be produced by the body itself, counteracts restless skin. This is because the body extracts gamma linolenic acid from it. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect, it allows dermatoses, sunburn and burns to heal faster and prevents acne.