Essential fatty acids are lipids that are not metabolized by the body and therefore must be obtained from the diet. They are nutritionally essential and required for many biological processes.  There are two primary families of essential fatty acids, Omega-3, and Omega-6, with constituent lipids within each group.  A western diet typically includes Omega-6 fatty acids in large amounts, and foods like grains, plant-based oils, poultry, and eggs are rich in Omega-6 lipids. However, Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily present in cold-water fish, are not as commonly consumed, and consequently, supplementation with Omega-3 has been recommended. Essential fatty acids have numerous health benefits and play an important role with inflammation, heart health, nerve function, skin quality, and all aspects of brain health.