Vitamin F is used primarily in cosmetics. No wonder, vitamin F, i.e. a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, has a great effect on the condition of the skin - it regenerates it, protects it against the harmful effects of frost or wind and prevents the aging process. In addition, it soothes acne lesions. What else does vitamin F have? What products are its source?

Vitamin Fis a complex of polyunsaturated fatty acids (EFAs):

  • alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from the omega-3 group. It is a precursor of DHA and EPA (i.e. it is converted into these acids in the body)
  • linoleic acid (LA) from the omega-6 group, which is a precursor of arachidonic acid - the third acid in the EFA complex

However, calling EFAs vitamin F is not widely accepted. Just like linoleic acid is vitamin N, pangamic acid is vitamin B15 and orotic acid is vitamin B13.

Vitamin F - what is it responsible for? Vitamin Ffunction

Vitamin F is used primarily in cosmetology and the treatment of skin diseases, because:

  • prevents inflammatory skin changes
  • accelerates wound healing
  • regenerates the epidermis

Vitamin F primarily regenerates the skin.

  • improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands of the skin
  • soothes acne lesions
  • slows down the aging process of the skin
  • protects the skin against the harmful effects of weather conditions (e.g. frost, wind)
  • prevents the skin from drying out

Therefore, in medicine, the indication for the use of vitamin F are, among others, psoriasis, allergic eczema, nappy rash in infants (including diaper dermatitis), acne, bedsores.

In addition, vitamin F plays an important role in maintaining the proper functioning of the brain and eyes, and has a positive effect on the heart and circulatory system (including preventing atherosclerotic changes). It regulates the digestive tract and strengthens the immune system.

Worth knowing

Vitamin F - dosage

Polyunsaturated fatty acids from the omega-6 group - so you linoleic (LA) and arachidonic - should provide 2-8 percent daily. needed calories. In turn, ALA from the omega-3 groupshould be eaten in the amount of 2 g / day.

Vitamin F - symptoms and effects of deficiency or excess in the body

The deficiency of polyunsaturated fatty acids increases the susceptibility to infections, causes disorders of cholesterol metabolism, and also increases the risk of hypertension. It can also contribute to infertility. In addition, it causes dry skin and delays wound healing.

Excessive consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids also reduces the body's resistance and slows wound healing. In addition, it increases the risk of hemorrhagic diathesis, and even diabetes and cancer.

Vitamin F - in what products is it found?

Vitamin F is mainly found in vegetable oils. The natural source is borage oil, pumpkin oil, blackcurrant seed oil, evening primrose oil, almond oil, poppy seed oil, linseed oil, peanut oil, sunflower oil, fish oil, olive oil. Vitamin F can also be found in:

  • walnuts
  • wheat germ
  • sea fish
  • full milk
  • soi
  • sunflower seeds, pumpkin
About the authorMonika Majewska A journalist specializing in he alth issues, especially in the areas of medicine, he alth protection and he althy eating. Author of news, guides, interviews with experts and reports. Participant of the largest Polish National Medical Conference "Polish woman in Europe", organized by the "Journalists for He alth" Association, as well as specialist workshops and seminars for journalists organized by the Association.

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