Eicosanoids (eye-COS-a-noids) are little known molecules that have a prominent impact on your health. They are derived from omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids (EFA) and have various roles in regulating your blood pressure, blood clotting, body inflammation, reproduction system, sleep/wake cycle and your immune system. Just like cholesterol, your body needs good and bad eicosanoids to function properly (for example, blood pressure balance). You directly impact the production of eicosanoids by what fat you consume in your diet. Choose healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, nuts (including peanut butter) and seeds and choose lean cuts of beef, skinless chicken, fish, fewer egg yolks and lower fat cheeses to produce more good than bad eicosanoids.
