What are the two essential fatty acids necessary for human health?

The correct identification of the two essential fatty acids necessary for human health involves recognizing the roles of specific omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is the primary omega-3 fatty acid that is considered essential because the body cannot synthesize it and must obtain it through diet. It is crucial for various bodily functions including anti-inflammatory processes and maintaining heart health. Linoleic acid (LA), an omega-6 fatty acid, is also essential and plays a fundamental role in cell structure and function, as well as in metabolic processes.

These two fatty acids are considered essential because they provide key building blocks for the synthesis of longer-chain fatty acids and eicosanoids, which are important for various cellular functions and signaling mechanisms within the body. Therefore, they are vital to overall health and cannot be produced by the body, necessitating their intake through dietary sources.

Other options provided contain fatty acids that may have health benefits or roles in various physiological processes, but they do not represent the essential fatty acids required for proper human health like ALA and LA.