What are Saturated Fatty Acids?

Table of Contents

• Saturated Fatty Acid – Definition
• Examples of Saturated Fatty Acids
• Associated Diseases
• Frequently Asked Questions

Saturated Fatty Acid – Definition

Fats that have single bonds along their fatty acid chains are called saturated fatty acids. Animal fats are saturated, while plant and fish fats are unsaturated. Processed and deep fried foods are also rich in saturated fats. Dairy products that are made from whole milk, such as yoghurt, cheese, butter and ice cream, have high proportions of saturated fat. Coconut and palm kernel oils also have high saturated fat content.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released guidelines to minimise the consumption of saturated fatty acids as they increase the incidence of cardiovascular diseases in healthy individuals.

Examples of Saturated Fatty Acids

Although most saturated fatty acids have a chain of 12-24 carbons, many short fatty acid chains with 4 to 6 carbons are also found. Below is a table of the most common saturated fatty acids, along with their sources.

Associated Diseases

1. Cardiovascular Diseases: High consumption of saturated fatty acids is directly associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The World Health Organisation has recommended a diet with less than 10% of saturated fatty acids out of total energy consumption. Studies have shown that replacing saturated fatty acids with unsaturated fats for upto two years can progressively decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Dyslipidemia is a condition of abnormal levels of lipids in our blood. It is caused due to high consumption of saturated fatty acids. Dyslipidemia shows high levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein or low-density lipoprotein. This condition is directly related to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

2. Cancer: A number of studies have shown that high consumption of saturated fatty acids can lead to breast cancer and prostate cancer.

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Also Read:

• Importance of Fats – Types of Fats, Sources and Its Benefits
• Difference between Fats and Oils
• Difference between Lipids and Fats