**3.2 Function**

Essential fatty acids help in the absorption of important nutrients and expelling of harmful waste products that support the reproductive, cardiovascular, nervous systems, and immune. They are also important for proper growth, neural development, and maturation of sensory systems in children. Other important roles of EFAs are to increase the production of prostaglandins that regulate body functions, such as blood pressure, heart rate, blood clotting, conception, and fertility. EFAs also play an important role in immune function by regulating inflammation and encouraging the body to fight infection [16]. Essential fatty acids are beneficial for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis [17] and reduce tenderness in joints, swelling, and diminish morning stiffness. It has also been observed that EFAs are important elements for asthma [18], depression [19], bipolar disorder schizophrenia [20], hypertension [21], heart diseases [22], burns [23], photodermatitis, acne or psoriasis [24], cholesterol [25], obesity [26], insulin sensitivity [27], osteoporosis [28], attention deficit disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [29], age-related macular degeneration [30], dry-eye conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome [31]. Consumption of sufficient amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of colorectal [32], breast cancer [33], and prostate cancer [34].
