Which of the following can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess?

Omega 6 fatty acids can indeed contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess. While they are essential fats that play important roles in the body, a significant imbalance in the ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids in the diet can lead to pro-inflammatory outcomes. The typical Western diet often contains a high level of omega 6 fatty acids due to processed vegetable oils, which can promote the production of inflammatory mediators.

In contrast, omega 3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping to balance the effects of omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 9 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, while beneficial, do not have the same inflammatory impact when consumed in moderate amounts. Instead, they are often regarded as heart-healthy fats that can positively influence overall health when part of a balanced diet. Therefore, the key factor with omega 6 fatty acids is that excessive intake, particularly without adequate omega 3s, can lead to an inflammatory response in the body.