Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential (vital) and must be consumed through food. For example, as building blocks of hormones and cell membranes, they fulfil important tasks. Polyunsaturated fatty acids contribute to maintaining normal cholesterol levels and are necessary for the normal growth and healthy development of children.
A distinction is made between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. In order for these to develop their positive effects, it is recommended to consume omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in a ratio of 2:1 to a maximum of 5:1. Good plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids include linseed, walnut and rapeseed oil. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends a daily intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids of 7-10 % of total energy intake.
100 g oat flakes contain 2.8 g polyunsaturated fatty acids, a good 40 % of the oats' own fat.
