In the body, essential fatty acids are primarily used to produce hormone-like substances that regulate a wide range of functions, including blood pressure, blood clotting, blood lipid levels, the immune response, and the inflammation response to injury infection. It is important to keep a balance of essential fatty acids in the human body system. Changes in the levels and balance can result in behavioral changes such as depression or violent tendencies. This can be controlled by changing the diet to include food rich in fatty acids. Another way is by taking supplements.

Fatty acids in the form of supplements help the body in several ways. They are beneficial to people who have already suffered a heart attack. Supplements actually regulate abnormal heart rhythms. Omega 3 supplements may also help ease the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have shown that symptoms such as morning stiffness and joint tenderness decrease after 3 months of regular fish oil supplement intake. Omega-3 was also reported to enhance the benefits of anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin.