Final answer:
Arachidonic acid and DHA may be conditionally essential for normal growth and development, particularly for infant brain and eye development, as well as for reducing inflammation and maintaining cardiovascular health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recent research indicates that the fatty acids arachidonic acid and DHA may be conditionally essential for certain physiological functions. Arachidonic acid is a long-chain unsaturated fatty acid that is synthesized from linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid. It serves as a precursor for the synthesis of prostaglandins and is involved in the transport and metabolism of cholesterol. On the other hand, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid that plays a crucial role in the normal growth and development of infants, particularly in the development of the brain and eyes. While the body can synthesize DHA from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the conversion rate is low, suggesting the dietary intake of DHA is beneficial. Foods such as fish, shellfish, and algae are rich sources of DHA and arachidonic acid, and they contribute to several health benefits including reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and preventing blood clot formation. Considering these factors, arachidonic acid and DHA may be conditionally essential, meaning they are necessary under specific conditions where endogenous synthesis is not sufficient.