Omega-9 Fatty Acid

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-02-14 (EDT)

Omega-9 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fatty acids that are commonly found in vegetable and animal fats. These types of fatty acids are also known as oleic acids. Unlike omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, omega-9 fatty acids are produced by the body, but are also beneficial when they are obtained in food.

Food Sources

Sources of Oleic acid include canola oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and nuts such as almonds, cashews, macadamias, peanuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts.

Uses

The following is a list of the primary uses for omega-9 fatty acids[1]:

  • Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): Replacing dietary saturated fats with olive oil has been found to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. This diet is also associated with a reduced risk of first myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack.
  • Hypertension: As stated previously, studies have found that consuming a modified diet consisting of high amounts of extra virgin olive oil over six months can significantly improve blood pressure.In some cases, patients with mild to moderate hypertension have even been able to decrease doses or discontinue use of antihypertensive medications.
  • Stroke
  • Coronary Heart Disease

Prescribing Considerations

The recommended dosages have not yet been established. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.[1]

  • Constipation: oral 30ml of olive oil has been used
  • Hypertension: 30-40g of extra virgin olive oil per day has been used as part of the diet
  • Hyperlipidemia: olive oil 23g/day (2 tablespoons)

Deficiency Symptoms

  • Dry, flaky skin
  • Dermatitis
  • Hair loss (females)
  • Dry hair
  • Brittle nails
  • Increased thirst
  • frequent urination
  • Growth retardation in children
  • Increased susceptibility to infection
  • Poor wound healing

Assessment Procedure

Safety

The safety precautions of omega-9 fatty acids include[1]:

  • Delayed hypersensitivity and contact dermatitis, reported after using olive topically
  • Olive tree pollen can cause seasonal respiratory allergy
  • Interactions:[1]
Supportive or Beneficial:
  • Olive oil may have a moderate interaction with antidiabetic medications
  • Moderate interaction with antihypertensive medications
  • Olive leaf may lower blood glucose. Monitor glucose levels and adjust therapy accordingly

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Olive Monograph: Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, Retrieved February 6, 2014, from http://ezproxy.ccnm.edu:2076/nd/Search.aspx?cs=&s=ND&pt=100&id=233&ds=