Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: Duncan Cookson on 17/08/2009 10:30:03

Title: Can fatty acids be absorbed through the skin?
Post by: Duncan Cookson on 17/08/2009 10:30:03

Duncan Cookson  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Hi

Long time listener to the show (http://www.thenakedscientists.com/HTML/podcasts/) and thought of a question today that Google isn't really helping me with.

More news recently about the benefits of omega 3s. As a vegetarian I don't like the idea of fish oil supplements and thought about hemp seed oil.

I sometimes use the oil as a moisturiser/skin lotion, for my feet after a long walk for example. I was wondering if the beneficial fatty acids can be absorbed through the skin which means I wouldn't have to drink it or have a salad every day with a hemp oil dressing.

Thanks

Duncan Cookson

What do you think?

Title: Can fatty acids be absorbed through the skin?
Post by: Chelsie on 17/08/2009 11:35:55

Unfortunately omega 3 fatty acids can only be used metabolically if we have ingested them first. Once we have ingested our omega 3 rich foods and supplements, they are broken down via the normal digestion process into smaller molecules that we need for cellular function. Sorry! Maybe you can try finding some alternatives. Do you eat a lot of tofu? It offers some omega 3's. Walnuts are also a good source. Good luck!

Title: Can fatty acids be absorbed through the skin?
Post by: Duncan Cookson on 20/08/2009 02:09:46

Thanks  [:)] Not a big fan of Tofu but I've started to use Walnut Oil as a dressing for Avocado which I'm guessing also provides Omega 3s? I can always drink a bit of Hemp Oil every now and again too, doesn't taste that bad. Thanks again.