Final answer:
Linoleate and linolenate are essential fatty acids because they cannot be synthesized by the human body and are critical for development and maintaining health. They must be consumed through the diet, with linoleic acid aiding in synthesizing other fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid being a precursor to long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Step-by-step explanation:
Linoleate (linoleic acid) and linolenate (alpha-linolenic acid) are classified as essential fatty acids because they are crucial for human health but cannot be synthesized by the human body. These fatty acids are required for normal growth and development, and must be obtained through the diet. Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, is used by the body to produce other unsaturated fatty acids, including arachidonic acid, which is a precursor for prostaglandins. Alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, is also vital as it can be converted, although inefficiently, into longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These conversions are crucial because they play significant roles in the transport and metabolism of cholesterol, as well as in cell membrane structure and function.
Consuming 4-6 grams of essential fatty acids daily is recommended for maintaining good health. Foods rich in linoleic acid include plant oils, such as soybean and corn oil, while alpha-linolenic acid can be found in nuts, flaxseeds, and green leafy vegetables.