Integrate Health, energy sources

Earlier sections of this chapter have emphasized that, in addition to their use as energy sources, fatty acids have a number of roles that are essential to cell and tissue function (Figure 5). A range of fatty acids is required for membrane composition, integrity and function to be retained. This means that a supply of the correct balance of fatty acids to cells and tissues is essential for the optimal functioning of those cells and tissues. Furthermore, different cells and tissues may require a different balance of fatty acids (i.e. they may have different demands for fatty acids). Although many fatty acids can be synthesized in the human body, some caimot (linoleic and a-linolenic acids) and so these fatty acids must be consumed in the diet. In the absence of significant dietary intakes, synthesis of some other fatty acids (e.g. arachidonic acid) requires the provision of a preformed precursor fatty acid (e.g. linoleic acid). This means that dietary supply of some fatty acids is very important to meet the demands imposed by optimal ceU and tissue function. Thus, an inadequate or unbalanced supply of fatty acids may impair cell and tissue function and lead to ill health and disease. Therefore, dietary fatty acids can influence human health. 

---