What are the symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency?
Written by
Natalie Hamilton
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.A deficiency of essential fatty acids manifests in demonstrable symptoms in the various systems of the body. The skin becomes dry and scaly. Wound healing occurs more slowly than normal. Night vision deteriorates considerably. Memory impairment and concentration lag develop. These symptoms indicate cellular membrane malfunctions requiring correction.
Integumentary System
- Symptom: Scaly dermatitis resembling fish skin
- Cause: Impaired ceramide production from low LA
- Repair: Topical sunflower oil application twice daily
Immune Response
- Symptom: Frequent infections and slow healing
- Cause: Reduced prostaglandin synthesis
- Repair: Achieve 1:4 omega-3:omega-6 ratio
Visual Function
- Symptom: Poor dark adaptation and blurred vision
- Cause: Low DHA in retinal photoreceptors
- Repair: 500mg DHA daily for 3 months
When you have skin problems, they are often the first to appear. Ceramide deficiency is compromising your moisture barrier. Apply high-linoleic acid (LA) oils, such as safflower, directly to the skin. Additionally, incorporate food sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. I have had clients use this approach and have seen scaling resolve in a matter of weeks.
Frequent infections often exhibit immune dysfunction. Blood testing demonstrates low levels of EPA. Increase your consumption of fatty fish. For vegans, algal EPA supplementation is a viable option. White blood cell counts should be checked every month during the recovery phase.
Neurological symptoms require urgent attention. DHA depletion affects brain phospholipids. Children show learning difficulties. Adults experience memory gaps. Restore with a minimum of 250mg DHA daily. Re-test the omega-3 index after 90 days.
Avoid relapsing through a balanced diet. Focus on wild salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds over other nuts or oils. Eliminate any processed oils that disrupt omega ratios. Blood tests help provide objective indicators that progress is happening. Most deficiencies can be completely resolved with targeted effort.
Read the full article: Essential Fatty Acids: Complete Overview
