Beyond Omega-3s: 14 Rare Fats Your Brain and Joints Desperately Need

Lisette Marie

3. Phosphatidylcholine (Choline-rich lipids)

Photo Credit: Getty Images @Yarnit

Phosphatidylcholine is a core membrane phospholipid and the principal dietary source of choline, a molecule needed to make the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Acetylcholine plays central roles in attention, memory, and neuromuscular signaling—so maintaining choline-rich lipid pools supports both brain and muscle-related function. Common foods with high phosphatidylcholine content include egg yolks, soy lecithin, liver, and certain seed oils.

4. Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)

Photo Credit: Getty Images @Yarnit

Gamma-linolenic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that follows a metabolic path distinct from more ubiquitous omega-6s. Instead of contributing only to pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, GLA can be converted in tissues to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid and then to anti-inflammatory or inflammation-resolving mediators. Food and supplement sources include evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil, each of which concentrates GLA to varying degrees.

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3. Phosphatidylcholine (Choline-rich lipids)

4. Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)

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