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fats
properties of fatty acids
nutrition


definition

Properties of Fatty Acids (saturation vs. unsaturation):
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overview:
• Saturated fatty acids (SFA) — These fatty acid chains do not have any double bonds. They are considered nonessential and come mostly from animal products such as dairy and meat. They have been implicated in cardiovascular disease and other inflammatory conditions.
• Unsaturated fatty acids (USFA) — This is a general term describing many fatty acids with different properties. These fatty acids contain at least one double bond in their structure and may include essential fatty acids.
• Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) — They are fatty acids that contain only one fatty acid. They are considered nonessential, although they appear to have some beneficial properties such as protection from cancer (because of their stability) and also protection from cardiovascular disease. They are found in olive oil.
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) PUFAs are fatty acids which contain at least two double bonds. They have been associated with protection against cardiovascular disease. They tend to be unstable and susceptible to oxidative damage, forming free radicals and peroxides. They are found in all cell membranes throughout the body. Certain PUFAs have been associated with an increase in cancer and, as their intake increases, requirements for antioxidant nutrients also increase. Certain other PUFAs, like omega 3 fatty acids, have been shown to be protective against cancer and cardiovascular disease. PUFAs are found in nuts, seeds, whole grains and, in small amounts, in dairy and meats. Wild animals, who are more active than domestic animals, have a higher content of PUFAs in their tissues.




footnotes

Marz, Russell. Medical Nutrition From Marz. Second Edition. Portland, OR. 1997.