Palmitic acid
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
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Alternative spellings and names
Hexadecanoic acid, 16:0
Social Share
Follow US
