In Finland, the higher the serum linoleic acid level, the lower the C-reactive protein, according to a new study from the University of Eastern Finland. Vegetable oils, plant-based spreads, nuts and seeds are the main sources for linoleic acid, the most common polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid.
It has been speculated that a high intake of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase the risk of several chronic diseases by promoting low-grade inflammation. Clinical trials have shown that even a very high intake of linoleic acid does not increase inflammatory responses. In the human body, linoleic acid is converted into various compounds that alleviate inflammation.
This study found that a low serum linoleic acid level was associated with higher serum CRP levels. Divided into four groups based on their serum linoleic acid levels, the probability for an elevated CRP was 53 percent lower in the highest quarter compared to the lowest one.