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nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

In the human diet, the classification of certain fatty acids as “essential” is because they

A. Are required for the synthesis of all proteins
B. Serve as the sole building blocks for nucleic acids
C. Cannot be synthesized de novo and prevent deficiency diseases
✓
D. Provide the only source of glucose in the bloodstream

📝 Explanation

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and α-linolenic acid (omega-3) are essential fatty acids. Humans and other mammals lack the enzymes (Δ12 and Δ15 desaturases) to insert double bonds at the required positions in the fatty acid chain. They must be ingested in the diet to maintain health.

📖 Additional Information

  • Are required for the synthesis of all proteins
  • Serve as the sole building blocks for nucleic acids
  • Cannot be synthesized de novo and prevent deficiency diseases
  • Provide the only source of glucose in the bloodstream

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and α-linolenic acid (omega-3) are essential fatty acids. Humans and other mammals lack the enzymes (Δ12 and Δ15 desaturases) to insert double bonds at the required positions in the fatty acid chain. They must be ingested in the diet to maintain health.

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