Stearic acid is a long-chained saturated fatty acid commonly found in high levels in animal fats, cocoa butter, and shea butter.
Reviews suggest that relative to other saturated fatty acids, stearic acid improves or has a neutral effect on cholesterol profiles; relative to unsaturated fatty acids, stearic acid is less beneficial. Fats high in stearic acid as opposed to other saturated fatty acids have been found to have generally positive effects on blood lipids and blood clotting. See: Saturated fats
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
Cocoa butter, shea butter, butter, beef tallow, lard, dairy products, animal fats, animal products
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2
New England Journal of Medicine
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 3