What is the RDA for EFA?

As outlined in a 2003 review in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition", the conversion of ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) to EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and thence to DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) is quite poor under normal circumstances, so EPA and DHA are now considered essential fatty acids, of EFAs.

For optimal cardiovascular protection, the American Heart Association recommends that you consume from 0.5 to 1.8 g of EPA plus DHA, and from 1.5 to 3 g of ALA daily. You should also consume around 15 g of LA (Linoleic Acid) daily, according to a 2010 review in "Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care".

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/397671-dosage-requirements-for-essential-fatty-acids/#ixzz1dtMnrtqk

... the needed balance of the Essential Fatty Acids is 5 (five) Omega-6 to 1 (one) Omega-3. This is the Omega-6 to Omega-3 balance.

But, what is needed to counteract all the negative effects of eating the normal Western diet is about 1:2. For every one portion of Omega-6 you eat, you will need 2 portions of Omega-3

An optimum amount of essential fatty acid has been suggested as 3 to 6% of our daily calorie intake.

Read more: http://www.mcvitamins.com/essential%20fatty%20acids.htm