Omega 6 Fact Sheet, FAQs & Product List

Omega-6 information, FAQ and product listing page. This page contains everything you need to know about omega-6!

What is omega-6 and what does it do?

Omega-6 fatty acids are essential to the body. They are essential to the body, but cannot be produced by it – making consumption through the diet necessary. Also referred to as polyunsaturated fatty acids or PUFAs, omega-6 fatty acids play a very important role in stimulating skin and hair growth, maintain the health of our bones, regulating metabolism, and maintaining the capability to reproduce.

There are several different kinds of omega-6 fatty acids. Most of the omega-6 fatty acids that are consumed in the diet through vegetable oils are known as linoleic acid (LA) (not to be confused with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which an omega-3 fatty acid). Once in the body, linolenic acid is converted into gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and is further broken down into AA, or arcahidonic acid. AA is able to be consumed by meat, while GLA can be ingested from plant-based oils.

In America, the amount of omega-6 fatty acids consumed is very high, particularly in relation to omega-3 fatty acids. An imbalance of essential fatty acids can contribute to long-term diseases like heart disease, asthma, arthritis, depression, and cancer. A healthy diet should consist of approximately one omega-3 fatty acid to four omega-6 fatty acids. (1:4 ratio)

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What foods contain omega-6?

The American diet receives more than enough omega-6 fatty acids because the form of linoleic acid (LA) comprises the primary oil ingredient in most processed foods. It’s also commonly found in cooking oils like corn, cottonseed, soybean, sunflower, and safflower oils.

The omega-6 fatty acid form linolenic acid (GLA) and LA can be found in the plant seed oils of black currant, borage, evening primrose, and fungal oils.

Arachidonic acid (AA) is found in egg yolk, meats, and other animal-based foods.

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What is the suggested daily intake of omega-6?

For adults, studies have suggested that a few thousand milligrams of GLA per day can be tolerated by the body. There are different suggested daily intake levels, depending on activity level and if any diseases or conditions are present. Those with diabetes should take 480 mg per day of GLA. For breast tenderness or other symptoms of PMS, take 3,000 to 4,000 mg of EPO per day. If you are unsure about how much omega-6 you should be taking, consult your doctor.

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What are the symptoms of omega-6 deficiency?

The deficiency of essential fatty acids affects cell and tissues throughout our body. Nothing in our body can process without them. Symptoms of deficiency include:

• Eczema-like skin eruptions
• Hair loss
• Behavioral changes
• Dry glands
• Male sterility
• Growth retardation
• Dry skin
• Dry Eyes
• Miscarriage
• Irregular heart beat

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Who can benefit from using omega-6 supplements?

Everyone can benefit from taking Omega-6 and as such, should consume it daily. As discussed previously, Omega-6 has a variety of positive health benefits on the body. Additionally though, Omega-6 fatty acids can help combat many common illnesses and health problems including anorexia, ADHD, diabetes, eye disease, osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, acne, eczema, alcoholism, allergies, arthritis, cancer, weight loss, high blood pressure, heart disease, tuberculosis, and ulcers.

While everyone should consume essential fatty acids, the following in particular should:

• Women that are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Women with hormonal conditions
• People with dry skin or inflammatory skin conditions like acne or eczema
• Those with high blood pressure or heart disease
• Heavy Drinkers
• Athletes and others that are physically active

Specific benefits to bodybuilders

• Increases stamina
• Improves muscular development

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Does omega-6 have any side effects?

There are no serious adverse side effects from taking omega-6 fatty acids. However, there are some precautions and potential interactions that some can experience. Omega-6 should not be taken if you have a seizure disorder. It can cause seizures. Additionally, borage seed oil and other sources of GLA should not be taken during pregnancy because of the risk it causes to the fetus by inducing early labor. Always consult your doctor.

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OMEGA 6 PRODUCTS ON SALE NOW:

Optimum Fish Oil Softgels Optimum Nutrition's fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and enteric coated so you don't get any of those nasty aftertastes!	Optimum Flaxseed Oil Optimum Nutrition's potent flaxseed oil gives you 1,000mg of essential fatty acids (EFAs) in every serving. ON's flaxseed oil is the highest quality on the market!
Opti-Women Multivitamin Opti-Women Multi-Vitamin provides the perfect balance of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, extracts and herbs to supplement a women's diet and workout.	Animal Omega Universal Nutrition's Animal Omega a "foundation" supplement of essential fatty acids (EFAs) designed to work in the background and give your body the support it needs to build muscle, recover from intense training and function at optimal levels.
CLA 1000 CLA - Conjugated Linoleic Acid - is not a new discovery as some people would have you believe. However, better understandings of its possibilities are leading to potential applications that are awfully new and exciting.	EAS CLA Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is a special type of omega-6 fatty acid that may exert a positive effect on protein and fat metabolism, which is beneficial if you goal is to accelerate body fat loss, build lean muscle, or provide the body with antioxidants
Fish/Flax Oil Blend TwinLab Flax/Fish Combo Oil contains a unique breakthrough blend of certified organic flaxseed oil and pure oils derived from marine sources, which deliver a long lasting, sustainable supply of EPA and DHA.	Lipo-6 Hers Lipo 6 Hers is the world's most advanced female fat burner using the new and superior liquid Multi-Phase technology. This proprietary technology combines rapid liquid capsule delivery with controlled-release inside capsule technology.
Ultimate Nutrition CLA Research proven to build muscle, reduce Body fat, and induce a optimum cellular environment for improved health! Ultimate Nutrition's CLA can help you achieve your muscle growth and fat loss goals!	CLA Enhanced CLA has proven to increase nutrient usage, encourage muscle tone and significantly reduce body fat. Prolab Nutrition's CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) is a naturally occurring free fatty acid found primarily in meat and dairy products, in small amounts.
Lean Dessert Protein Lean Dessert Protein™ is a protein-based supplement perfect for weight management, calorie-restricted and/or low carb diets.	Dymatize CLA Dymatize CLA is made from 100% pure CLA. CLA is scientifically proven to build muscle, lower body fat, and encourage an optimum cellular environment for improved health!
Udo's Oil Udo's Oil is an essential blend of essential fatty acids (EFAs). Udo's oil can help build muscle, burn fat and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Muscle and Strength has low prices on Udo's Oil!	Pro Tan Instant Competition Color Pro Tan Instant Competition Color is the most popular tanning product used by bodybuilders, fitness models and figure competitors! Muscle and Strength has Pro Tan Instant Competition Color at low, low prices!
Freak Fix Muscle Whey Freak Fix Muscle Whey is a high potency whey protein supplement that has been proven to build up to 15 times more muscle than the placebo! Freak Fix Muscle Whey on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	Muscle Asylum Project Arson Muscle Asylum Project Arson is a potent fat burning formula designed to help you shed fast fast! Muscle Asylum Project Arson is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!
Atro-Phex BSN Atro-Phex is a powerful thermogenic for energy, weight management, well-being and performance.BSN Atro-Phex is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	NOW Omega 3-6-9 NOW Omega 3-6-9 provides a balanced blend of two essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (and their derivatives), necessary for many bodily functions: Omega 3 oils from flaxseed and canola, one type of Omega 6 oil (GLA) from Primrose and Black Currant.
NOW Salmon Oil NOW Foods Salmon Oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. The Salmon Oil Concentrate used in NOW Salmon Oil Softgels is manufactured in Norway under strict quality control standards. NOW Salmon Oil is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	NOW Ultra Omega-3 NOW Ultra Omega-3 contains 1,000mg of high quality fish oil and Omega-3 fatty acids. The natural fish oil concentrate used in this softgel is manufactured under strict quality control standards. Ultra Omega-3 is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!
Eve Womens Multivitamin NOW Eve Women's Multivitamin is formulated specifically around today's woman's needs. You can be sure you getting exactly what you need with a formula that's made specifically for you. NOW Eve is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	NOW CLA NOW CLA is a smart choice for anyone trying to maintain a healthy body weight. CLA, a distinctive omega-6 fatty acid, has rapidly become one of the most talked about weight loss products since its introduction to the public in the late 90's.
Lean & Fit Meal Replacement All The Whey Lean & Fit is based on our Isolate product, and delivers 25 grams of protein per serving and only 2 net carbs per serving. They are as healthy as they are delicious, loaded with essential vitamins and minerals making them an effective MRP!	SciVation Sesamin Scivation Sesamin, lab tested for potency and purity, contains a high-grade extract of Sesamin, a naturally occurring lignan found in sesame oil. SciVation Sesamin can be used to support fat loss and is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!
Hot Stuff Instant Vasodialator Pro Tan Hot Stuff Instant Vasodilation Optimizer Competition Formula helps to maximize blood delivery and circulation throughout the upper levels of the skin enhancing your true vascularity.	Muscle Juice Posing Oil Pro Tan Muscle Juice Professional Posing Oil is the ultimate physique presentation and total muscular definition posing oil that will leave your competition in the pump-up room. Muscle Juice Posing Oil is on sale now!
Muscle Sheen Posing Gel Pro Tan Muscle Sheen Professional Posing Gel is Used by World Class Bodybuilders. Muscle Sheen Posing Gel glides on smoothly for the perfect sheen under bright, hot lights. Developed for stage lights, leaving your skin with a satin sheen look!	Hair Away Sport Pro Tan Hair Away Depilatory System actually removes hair slightly below the skins surface eliminating future re-growth and the need to shave.
Hot Quick Bronze For that dark, healthy and rich tan in only seconds, Quick Bronze exclusive non-streak, water proof formula with rich moisturizers guarantees an extra smooth, easy application that looks great after just one use.	Lipotropic Protein Lipotropic Protein contains a new kind of protein that is the most advanced on the market, surpassing old whey concentrate blends in protein quality and effect on lean mass.
Vandella Flex Cut Satin Posing Suit	Pure Whey Protein Isolate Muscle Gauge 100% Pure Whey Protein Isolate is the perfect nutritional component to compliment your muscle growth, fat loss or fitness program. Muscle Gauge WPI is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!
Premium Protein Blend Muscle Gauge's Premium Protein Blend is the gold standard of protein supplements! Muscle Gauge's Premium Protein Blend is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	Cold Fusion EX Cold Fusion EX increases strength, stamina and size. We do this by combining a unique ratio of ingredients that are proven in the scientific studies to perform a unique function. Cold Fusion EX is on sale now at M&S!
Perfect Carb Perfect Carb is the ultimate source for anyone wishing to add key muscle building glycogen while controlling insulin and fat storage. Perfect Carb is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	Speed V2 Speed V2 is the first hardcore diet pill that is 100% caffeine free, but still gives you extra energy and reduces appetite better than anything on the market! Muscle and Strength has the lowest prices on Speed V2!
BC+EAA BC/EAA is a precise blend of Branched Chain Amino Acids with extra Leucine (the king of all anabolic aminos) along with Hydrolzyed Essential Amino Acids!	Essential FA Scivation Essential FA is the safe and complete essential fatty acid formula you need! Your gains have been suffering. You will not get optimal results if you do not get what you need. Muscle and Strength has low prices on Scivation Essential FA!
MAX CLA CLA is a potent antioxidant, which is scientifically proven to help improve lipid profiles and enhance overall health. CLA is a naturally occurring free fatty acid found mainly in meat and dairy products.	Optimum CLA CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) is quickly becoming a "must have" for people who are looking to lose fat and gain muscle. Each softgel contains 1000 mg of CLA One® that yields 750 mg total CLA and 700 mg of active isomers.
Salmon Oil Softgels Salmon oils contain long-chain omega-3 fatty acids called DHA and EPA. DHA and EPA are essential fats, so they can't be synthesized by your body; they can only be obtained through foods and supplements.	Whey Sensible Whey Sensible contains high quality whey protein. Whey protein is unsurpassed in its ability to provide fast acting protein that is readily absorbed and utilized by your muscles and will help curb your cravings.
Trim Fat Trimfat is the first ever weight management formula with the TFI (Targeted Fat Incinerator) Blend and the BerryLean Blend. The TFI Blend is designed to target trouble areas, including women's hips and thighs, as well as support increased energy levels.	EstraCort Estracort is scientifically formulated to help women safely and naturally support estrogen and cortisol to help support fat loss, reduce water retention and maximize results!
Creadex Creadex is a scientifically engineered anabolic creatine matrix designed to trigger ultra-fast absorption, pushing your muscle creatine levels to maximum saturation.	N.O. PlasmaCore N.O. PlasmaCore is the hardest hitting anabolic nitric oxide formula ever made and is scientifically designed to force an unrivaled anabolic, neuro-thermogenic and vaso-reactive training experience.
Pure Micellar Casein Muscle Gauge Nutrition Micellar Casein is of highest quality imported from France. Separated from milk by way of ultrafiltration leaves the Micellar protein high in bioactive milk peptides that help support the immune system, as well as enhance growth.	Caffeine 200 Muscle Gauge Nutrition Caffeine 200 will switch on a surge of strength, drive and endurance when you’re looking to up the wattage of your next workout.
ZMA Caps Muscle Gauge Nutrition ZMA is the highest quality ZMA and on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	Pure Creatine Ethyl Ester Muscle Gauge Nutrition's Creatine Ethyl Ester is made from 100% pure CEE delivered in an easy-to-swallow capsule.
Pure Glutamine	Pure Creatine Monohydrate Muscle Gauge Nutrition's Creatine Monohydrate is made from the highest quality creatine monohydrate -- tested for purity!
Arginine 500 Muscle Gauge Nutrition 's Arginine 500 contains 500mg of pure L-Arginine per serving! Arginine 500 is on sale now at Muscle and Strength!	Anadraulic State Anadraulic State is the first pre-workout product made exclusively to build the key androgenic compounds needed for extreme muscle growth along with the perfect blend of nutrients that will put your muscles in an anabolic state...the Anadraulic State!
Slin SLIN is the safe, legal alternative to insulin that will give you similar results without side effects!

Sources used:
Barre DE. Potential of evening primrose, borage, black currant, and fungal oils in human health. Ann Nutr Metab. 2001;45(2):47-57
Hederos CA, Berg A. Epogam evening primrose oil treatment in atopic dermatitis and asthma. Arch Dis Child . 1996;75(6):494-497
Leventhal LJ, Boyce EG, Zurier RB. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with black currant seed oil. Br J Rheumatol . 1994;33(9):847-852.
Simopoulos AP. Essential fatty acids in health and chronic disease. Am J Clin Nutr . 1999;70(3 suppl):560S-569S.
Stoll BA. Breast cancer and the Western diet: role of fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins. Eur J Cancer . 1998;34(12):1852-1856.
Wainwright PE. Do essential fatty acids play a role in brain and behavioral development? Neurosci Biobehav Rev . 1992;16(2):193-205.

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