Polyunsaturated fatty acid
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are fatty acids that contain more than one double bond in their backbone. This class includes many important compounds, such as essential fatty acids and those that give drying oils their characteristic property.
Structure and properties[edit | edit source]
Polyunsaturated fatty acids can be classified into two groups: omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. The numbers 3 and 6 refer to the position of the first double bond, counting from the end of the fatty acid chain.
PUFAs are important for normal human growth and development. They are essential in the diet because the human body cannot synthesize them. They are found in foods such as fish, nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Health effects[edit | edit source]
Research has shown that consumption of PUFAs can have various health benefits. For example, they can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, the balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the diet is important. A diet high in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3 fatty acids can increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to various health problems.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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