What are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)? Why are flax and chia considered good sources of EFAs by WFPB docs?

Two commonly found seeds stand out: flax and chia. Both have more Omega-3's than Omega-6's!

Dr Esselstyn's strict WFPB guidelines for heart health have zero nuts and only 1-2 tbsp of flax and chia. What's the underlying reasoning?

Dr Brooke Goldner's healing protocol for autoimmune conditions is centered around green smoothies. Ground flax seeds and ground chia seeds are an essential part of these smoothies. Why?

Mastering Diabetes guidelines for nuts & seeds are comparable to Dr Esselstyn's guidelines. They recommend 1 tbsp of ground flax seeds or 1 tbsp of ground chia seeds (or some combination of the two).

Dr Rick Dina has good lectures summarizing Omega-3 and Omega-6 pathways inside our bodies, and how we may derive Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) from fruits and veggies alone! He also mentions flax and chia seeds as good sources of EFAs.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 pathways in our body are fascinating! Omega-3 pathway leads to DHA/EPA. Omega-6 pathway leads to AA (Arachidonic Acid). For optimum health, we need to find the right balance of dietary intake of Omega-3's, relative to Omega-6's.

Arachidonic Acid (AA) appears in Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) pathways. Dr Greger explains that AA may play a role in cancer, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders.

An insightful technical lecture by Dr Tim Radak on essential fatty acids. He summarizes research on questions like these: What do we know about Omega-6 and Omega-3 pathways? What happens if we become vegan? Where may get vegans derive Omega-3's and Omega-6's? Do vegans need to supplement with DHA/EPA?