Arachidonic Acid

Last Updated: September 28 2022

Arachidonic acid (AA) is a fatty acid of the omega-6 class, and is the main fatty acid of interest when referring to an omega-3:6 ratio (relative to fish oil fatty acids). It is proinflammatory and immunosupportive.

Arachidonic Acid is most often used for

What else is Arachidonic Acid known as?
Note that Arachidonic Acid is also known as:
  • ARA
Arachidonic Acid should not be confused with:
  • Linoleic acid (parent omega-6 fatty acid)
Dosage information

There is currently insufficient evidence to recommend an ideal dose of arachidonic acid supplementation, but anecdotally it is used at the dosage of around 2,000 mg taken 45 minutes before a workout. It is uncertain if this is an optimal dose or whether the timing is required.

It should also be noted that for persons with chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel diseases, that the ideal dose of arachidonic acid may actually be a dietary restriction thereof. In instances of inflammatory diseases, arachidonic acid supplementation is likely contraindicated.

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