Posted by Larry Hoover on January 26, 2009, at 16:31:45
In reply to Re: zinc deficiency and gla, posted by guineapigjoe on January 25, 2009, at 19:40:58
Although some small amount of the polyunsaturated fats we consume goes to energy production, by and large they are too valuable to get destroyed. I wouldn't make any change in diet in order to prevent metabolizing them. I don't think it would work if you tried.
I can find evidence for zinc helping with attention problems, but not GLA. I can find evidence for benefits from the long-chain omega-3s. But it doesn't matter what the evidence is; if you're feeling better that's evidence enought for me.
GLA is an anti-inflammatory omega-6, but if and only if it gets blocked from delta-5 desaturase after elongation to DGLA (dihomogamma-linolenic acid....don't you love these names?). The best way to block DGLA from d-5-d is with long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. They have higher affinity for the enzyme. If you don't block it, then a goodly bit of the DGLA goes on to become arachidonic acid (AA), which is already far too high in our diets, and strongly pro-inflammatory.
So, in summary, the simplest course of action is also the best. Continue with your supplements.
BTW, what is your total zinc intake/day?
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:876046
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/health/20081212/msgs/876366.html