Gamma-linolenic acid

What is gamma-linolenic acid?

GLA is a fatty acid that is formed from the essential omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid. Linoleic acid must be taken in with food as the body cannot produce it itself. The body can then synthesize GLA and other fatty acids such as arachidonic acid from linoleic acid. GLA is the precursor for the formation of eicosanoids, which are involved in many metabolic processes as hormones or messenger substances.

What are the benefits of gamma-linolenic acid for dogs?

GLA has various positive effects on your dog's health. Here are some of them:

• Skin and coat: GLA improves the skin barrier, regulates sebum production and promotes wound healing. As a result, it can relieve dry, flaky and itchy skin and contribute to a shiny, healthy coat.
• Immune system: GLA has anti-inflammatory properties and can modulate the immune response. As a result, it can reduce allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation.
• Nervous system: GLA is important for the transmission of nerve impulses, especially in the brain. It can improve your dog's cognitive function, learning ability and behavior. It can also prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.

What are the disadvantages of gamma-linolenic acid for dogs?

GLA also has some potential disadvantages or risks that you should be aware of. Here are some of them:

• Overdosing: too much GLA intake can lead to digestive discomfort, diarrhea, bloating or vomiting. It can also impair blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. You should therefore always adhere to the recommended dosage and have your dog checked regularly by a vet.
• Interactions: GLA can interact with some medications or supplements and strengthen or weaken their effect. These include, for example, anticoagulants, antidiabetics, immunosuppressants or painkillers. You should therefore always consult your vet before giving your dog GLA.
• Ratio to omega-3 fatty acids: GLA belongs to the omega-6 fatty acids, which are healthy in the right amount, but can have a pro-inflammatory effect in excess. It is therefore important to keep an eye on the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Ideally, this should be between 5:1 and 10:1. To achieve this ratio, you can give your dog omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or linseed oil in addition to GLA.

How can you supply your dog with gamma-linolenic acid?

GLA is found in some vegetable oils that you can give your dog as a dietary supplement. The best known are:

• Borage oil:Borage oil has the highest GLA content of all oils, around 20%. It has a nutty taste and is well tolerated.
• Evening primrose oil: Evening primrose oil has a GLA content of around 10%. It has a mild taste and has a soothing effect on the skin.
• Hemp oil:Hemp oil has a GLA content of around 3%. It has a grassy taste and also contains other valuable fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids.

The dosage of GLA for dogs depends on various factors, such as weight, health status and the reason for intake. A general recommendation is to give about 0.5 to 1 ml of oil per 10 kg of body weight per day.