Definition

Palmitic acid is a long chain saturated fatty acid most commonly found in palm oil and animal fats.

Health considerations

The World Health Organization notes that there is convincing evidence that palmitic acid intake increases cardiovascular disease risk. Palmitic acid increases LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and decreases HDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as “good” cholesterol. Palmitic acid’s effects on cholesterol are considered to be less pronounced than those of myristic acid. See: Saturated fats.

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. See: Saturated fats

May be found in

Palm oil, beef tallow, animal fats, dairy, peanut oil, cottonseed oil

References

World Health Organization 

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 

Alternative spellings and names

Hexadecanoic acid, 16:0

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