Which of the following defines essential fatty acids?

Essential fatty acids are specifically those that the human body requires for various physiological functions but cannot synthesize on its own. Therefore, it becomes necessary to obtain them from dietary sources. The two primary essential fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid). These fatty acids play crucial roles in maintaining cell membrane integrity, supporting cardiovascular health, and influencing inflammatory processes in the body.

In contrast, fatty acids that can be produced by the body are classified as non-essential fatty acids. Additionally, while essential fatty acids are vital for health, they do not need to be consumed in large amounts compared to other macronutrients, which makes the concept of needing them only in large quantities inaccurate. Lastly, essential fatty acids are not limited to fruits; they are also found in various food sources, including fish, nuts, seeds, and oils, further supporting the definition of essentiality in their dietary acquisition.