NANP Board Practice Exam

Why is gamma linolenic acid (GLA) still considered an omega 6 fatty acid?

1. Because its first double bond occurs at carbon 6

2. Because it has 18 carbons with 3 double bonds

3. Because it can be synthesized in the body

4. Because it is derived from alpha linolenic acid

The correct answer is: Because its first double bond occurs at carbon 6

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is still considered an omega 6 fatty acid because its first double bond occurs at carbon 6. This is a defining characteristic of omega 6 fatty acids. Option B is incorrect because although GLA does have 18 carbons and 3 double bonds, this is not unique to omega 6 fatty acids as other fatty acids can have these traits as well. Option C is also incorrect because the ability to synthesize a fatty acid does not determine its classification as an omega 3 or 6. Option D is incorrect because although GLA is derived from alpha linolenic acid, this is not the determining factor for its classification as an omega 6 fatty acid.