Arachidonic acid is an Omega-6 fatty acid that is important for the production of inflammation-stimulating substances in the body. While it is essential in small quantities, excess intake can exacerbate inflammatory diseases. The modern diet is deficient in Omega-3 sources, which are generally anti-inflammatory. Bodybuilders and athletes may supplement with arachidonic acid, but this should be done under the advice of a physician.
Arachidonic acid is a liquid Omega-6 fatty acid essential for the human body in small quantities. It is important in the production of prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotrins and is essential for infant brain development. Although arachidonic acid is considered an essential fatty acid, it is not essential to acquire it through the diet. The human body can convert arachidonic acid from linoleic acid found in many vegetables, nuts and seeds. Excess arachidonic acid in the body is common in developed countries and is usually the result of excess intake from dietary sources, such as meat and eggs, with the highest concentrations in offal and egg yolks.
The main effect of arachidonic acid in the body is to stimulate inflammation. Redness, swelling, and pain are all normal inflammatory responses of body tissue to injury and aid in healing. After strenuous exercise, the inflammatory response helps muscles adapt to stress and strengthen. AA is a precursor of prostaglandins and thromboxanes, substances that dilate blood vessels, increase blood clotting, regulate body temperature, such as in cases of fever, help regulate sleep, and control cervical dilatation and uterine cramps in pregnant women. While some inflammations have a beneficial effect on the body, too many can cause harm.
It’s arachidonic acid’s effect on inflammation that has caused many nutritionists to label it a bad fat, along with saturated and trans fats. Arachidonic acid and linoleic acid are Omega-6 fatty acids. Both Omega 6 fatty acids and Omega 3 fatty acids, such as fish oils, are polyunsaturated and essential fats. Both types of fats are used by the human body to build essential hormones. Yet Omega 3 fatty acids are generally anti-inflammatory.
The modern diet is extremely deficient in Omega 3 sources while having an abundance of Omega 6 sources. Too much arachidonic acid from dietary sources can exacerbate inflammatory diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, lupus, allergies and arthritis. Experts sometimes recommend that people who have or are at increased risk of inflammatory disease avoid foods rich in AAs.
Bodybuilders and other athletes sometimes choose to supplement with arachidonic acid due to its role in building strength and muscle growth. This effect was confirmed by a 2007 Baylor University study, although it is very likely that more research is needed before supplementation is attempted. The decision to supplement with arachidonic acid should be made under the advice of a physician. Since most people already consume too much of this acid, supplementation should generally be avoided, except for athletes who regularly engage in rigorous activity.
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