n-6 Fatty acids and cardiovascular health: a review of the evidence for dietary intake recommendations.
n-6 PUFA are well known for their critical role in many physiological functions and seem to reduce risks of CHD. However, some argue that excessive consumption of n-6 PUFA may lead to adverse effects on health and therefore recommend reducing dietary n-6 PUFA intake or fixing an upper limit. In this context, the present work aimed to review evidence on the link between n-6 PUFA and risks of CVD. Epidemiological studies show that n-6 PUFA dietary intake significantly lowers blood LDL-cholesterol levels. In addition, n-6 PUFA intake does not increase several CVD risk factors such as blood pressure, inflammatory markers, haemostatic parameters and obesity. Data from prospective cohort and interventional studies converge towards a specific protective role of dietary n-6 PUFA intake, in particular linoleic acid, against CVD. n-6 PUFA benefits are even increased when SFA intake is also reduced. In regards to studies examined in this narrative review, recommendation for n-6 PUFA intake above 5 %, and ideally about 10 %, of total energy appears justified.
Nutritional Epidemiology Research Unit, UMR INSERM U557, INRA U1125, CNAM, UP13, CRNH-IdF, Faculté SMBH, 74 rue Marcel Cachin, 93017 Bobigny, France. s.czernichow@uren.smbh.univ-paris13.fr
Sébastien
S
Czernichow
Daniel
D
Thomas
Eric
E
Bruckert
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004041:Dietary Fats / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage; D043371:Fatty Acids, Omega-6 / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D019787:Linoleic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018673:Nutrition Policy; D012307:Risk Factors
D004041:Dietary Fats; D005227:Fatty Acids; D043371:Fatty Acids, Omega-6; D019787:Linoleic Acid