Essential fatty acids are those that cannot be syntheized by your body, and must therefore be obtained through your diet. These essential fatty acids involve two major groups of lipids: omega-3 and omega-6. The balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is important, but the typical American diet contains very high proportions of omega-6 fatty acids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This fatty acid imbalance -- often an omega-3 deficiency -- can cause a number of symptoms.
Poor Memory
Omega-3 fatty acids are involved in proper neural, or brain cell, function. As a result, an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency or fatty acid imbalance can lead to problems with cognitive functioning, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Continued leaning and memory are controlled by continued generation of brain cells throughout life, as well as the maintenance and establishment of new brain cell connections, allowing cells within your brain to communicate and allow memory recollection. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in high amounts in the brain, including regions of the brain involved in memory and thought. Without proper levels of omega-3 fatty acids, these cells may not function properly, limiting your memory. Eat foods like fish, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, to help maintain good memory.
Depression
Another possible symptom of an imbalance in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is depression or diminished mood regulation. Tufts University explains that omega-3 fatty acids are thought to play a role in mood regulation, and that patients suffering from depression tend to have lower levels of these fatty acids in their blood and fat tissue. The fatty acids are also thought to play a role in the functioning of parts of the brain that affect mood, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Though the exact effect of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency -- or omega-3 and -6 imbalances -- on depression is not yet elucidated, eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help with normal mood regulation.
Heart Problems
Imbalances in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids may also lead to heart problems over time. Adequate consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is involved in preventing a number of risk factors for heart disease. Specifically, these fatty acids can lower your blood cholesterol and blood pressure, helping to prevent cardiovascular disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, a proper balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help prevent blood clots, preventing heart attacks or strokes. However, the University warns that eating overly high levels of omega-3 fatty acids can lead to blood thinning, increasing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. You can help maintain a proper omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid balance by eating fish two to three times per week.
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