Gamma-linolenic acid

Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid of the omega-6 family that plays an important role in maintaining skin health, regulating inflammatory processes, and balancing hormones.

It is converted in the body into a substance called dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which is then converted into prostaglandins – hormone-like substances that play a key role in many biological processes.

Sources of Gamma-linolenic acid

Unlike other fatty acids, GLA is not found in large amounts in common food products. The main sources of GLA are oils obtained from specific plants:

• Evening primrose oil
• Borage oil
• Black currant oil

Although these oils can be beneficial, on a ketogenic diet, their high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and potential impact on the proportion of consumed fats should be taken into account.

GLA in the context of the keto diet

The keto diet involves high fat consumption. However, the main focus is on saturated and monounsaturated fats, while polyunsaturated fats, including omega-6, are recommended to be consumed in limited quantities due to the risk of developing inflammatory processes with their excess.

Nevertheless, GLA may be an exception to the rule, as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties and can contribute to improving skin condition and overall inflammatory background.

So, the benefits of consuming GLA in the keto diet:

1. Reduced inflammatory processes.
2. Maintenance of skin, hair, and nail health.
3. Regulation of hormonal balance.