Possible relevance of abnormal fatty acid metabolism in undernutrition: the relationship between oleic acid and growth.

Energy, protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals are all necessary for normal growth and development of children. In undernutrition, there is evidence for abnormal fatty acid metabolism. High levels of oleic acid and low levels of docosahexaenoic acid in plasma phosphatidylcholine have been associated with weight-for-age Z-score shifts to the left (increased prevalence of underweight) and vice versa (reduced prevalence of underweight). An alternative hypothesis is proposed, which describes a possible physiological mechanism whereby omega3 fatty acids contribute to growth. High blood oleic acid levels under conditions of undernutrition are proposed to be an adaptation to conserve glucose in the form of glycogen. Replacement with docosahexaenoic acid under conditions of adequate nutrition enhances membrane functioning so that glucose and energy become available for muscle formation.