Similar term(s): saturated, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fatty acids or fats.
Definition:
Fatty acids are the organic building blocks (small molecules that link
together to form long chains) of fats which are used by the body for energy and
tissue development.
Source: GreenFacts
More:
Fatty acids can be saturated, polyunsaturated or monounsaturated, depending on
the presence/absence of one or more pair of carbon-carbon double bonds within
the molecule.
Saturated fatty acids are often found in animal fats and,
eaten in high quantities, can raise cholesterol levels.
Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty
acids are found in nuts, seafood and certain vegetable oils and can lower
cholesterol levels.
Essential fatty acids are fatty acids that are required in
the human diet and that the body cannot make on its own and thus must obtain
from food.
