Linoleic Acid at a glance

Category
Fatty Acid
Also called
LA, C18:2, Omega-6 fatty acid
Commonly found in
Corn oil, Soybean oil, Sunflower oil, Safflower oil
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Linoleic Acid?

Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid essential for human health, meaning the body cannot synthesize it and it must be obtained through diet. It plays a vital role in cell membrane function and is a precursor for bioactive lipid compounds involved in inflammation and immunity. It is commonly found in plant oils, such as corn oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil.

Also known as:

LAC18:2Omega-6 fatty acid

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that is essential for human health. It's often avoided on a corn-free diet because corn oil, a common ingredient, is a significant source of linoleic acid. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Linoleic Acid

People on a corn-free diet may avoid linoleic acid because it is prevalent in corn oil, a significant source of this fatty acid. Some individuals may choose to avoid it due to concerns about omega-6 fatty acids contributing to inflammation when consumed in excess compared to omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, those with allergies to corn or those avoiding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) often seek alternatives to corn-derived products, including corn oil.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Linoleic Acid

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Related to Linoleic Acid

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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