GLO vs GLA: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to omega-3 fatty acids, two types stand out: GLO and GLA. These fatty acids are essential for our bodies, as they help maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails, and support heart health. But what exactly are GLO and GLA, and what makes them different? Let’s take a closer look.
GLO, or gamma-linolenic acid, is an omega-6 fatty acid that is found in certain plant-based oils, such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. GLA, or gamma-linolenic acid, is also an omega-6 fatty acid, but it is found in different sources, such as hemp seed oil, spirulina, and black currant seed oil.
So, what’s the difference between these two fatty acids? The main difference lies in their chemical structure. GLO has 18 carbon atoms and three double bonds, while GLA has 18 carbon atoms and four double bonds. This may seem like a small difference, but it has a big impact on how these fatty acids function in our bodies.
GLO is converted into other omega-6 fatty acids, such as arachidonic acid, which can cause inflammation in the body if consumed in excess. However, GLO has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema.
GLA, on the other hand, is converted into other omega-6 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) and arachidonic acid. GLA has also been shown to have a positive effect on skin health, as it helps regulate sebum production and can reduce inflammation in acne-prone skin.
Another difference between GLO and GLA is their dietary sources. GLO is primarily found in evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil, while GLA is found in hemp seed oil, spirulina, and black currant seed oil. This means that if you’re looking to increase your intake of either fatty acid, you’ll need to choose different dietary sources.
So, which fatty acid is better for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and health goals. If you’re looking to reduce inflammation in your body, GLO may be a better choice, as it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, if you’re looking to improve your skin health, GLA may be more beneficial, as it helps regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation in acne-prone skin.
It’s also important to note that both GLO and GLA are essential fatty acids, which means that our bodies cannot produce them on their own. We must obtain them through our diet or supplements. If you’re looking to increase your intake of these fatty acids, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first, as they can help you determine the right dosage and dietary sources for your individual needs.
In conclusion, GLO and GLA are two types of omega-6 fatty acids that are essential for our bodies. While they have similar names and functions, they differ in their chemical structure, dietary sources, and health benefits. Whether you choose to consume GLO or GLA will depend on your individual needs and health goals, so it’s important to do your research and talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or supplement regimen.