Long Chain Fatty Acids and Neurological Function from Womb to Grave (From Hatched Until Dispatched)

摘要

Both omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) play important roles in canine health. Among these are arachidonic (omega-6, ARA) and docosahexaenoic (omega-3, DII A) acids. There is strong evidence from both animal and human studies thatARA and DHA are critical for growth, brain development, and numerous cell functions. However, balancing amounts of both fatty acids is necessary recognizing that too much of one type may suppress the benefits of the other. In dogs it is known that ARA can be synthesized from shorter chain precursors but that DHA synthesis appears limited and thus a dietary essential.1 The present discussion is focused on DHA and neurological health. Nonetheless, the balance between both fatty acid types must be borne in mind and essential for neurological development and function.