What type of acids are found in flaxseed and hemp oil?

Flaxseed and hemp oil are rich sources of essential fatty acids, which are vital for human health because our bodies cannot synthesize them. These fatty acids play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including the formation of cell membranes and the production of signaling molecules. In particular, flaxseed oil is well-known for its high content of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, while hemp oil contains a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

The classification as essential fatty acids highlights their importance in the diet, as they must be obtained from food sources. This sets them apart from saturated fatty acids, which can be produced by the body, and trans fatty acids, which are typically associated with negative health effects and are often artificially created through hydrogenation processes. Unsaturated fatty acids encompass both essential and non-essential categories, but the key distinction for this question lies in the term "essential," specifically referring to those fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own.