Oleic Acid

Definition

Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid commonly found in plant sources, notably olive oil.

Health considerations

Oleic acid has cholesterol lowering effects, though it can lower both HDL and LDL cholesterol, also referred to as “good” and “bad” cholesterol. Evidence suggests that oleic acid is responsible for blood pressure lowering effects seen with olive oil consumption. In overweight individuals a diet enriched in oleic acid rather than saturated fats led to reduced risk of insulin resistance. 

Keep in mind

Fatty acids are not consumed in isolation, studies of consumption of various oils or fat sources may provide differing evidence of health benefits and risks.

May be found in

Safflower oil, olive oil, canola oil, hazelnut oil, peanut oil, macadamia oil

References

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
PNAS
Diabetes Care

Alternative Spellings and Names

18:1 cis-9