Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in both animals and plants. As the most common saturated fat in the human body and diet, it's integral to various biological functions but has been scrutinized for its potential impact on heart health when consumed in excess....
Palmitic acid is a saturated fatty acid with a 16-carbon chain. It’s widely present in foods, including palm oil, meat, dairy products, and certain plant oils. In the human body, palmitic acid is a major component of body fats and cellular membranes and serves as an important energy source. It’s also involved in the synthesis of more complex lipids.
Palmitic acid is a key component of various lipids, such as triglycerides and phospholipids, which are essential for cell membrane structure and function. It serves as an energy source and is involved in the production of signaling molecules. However, excessive intake of palmitic acid can lead to increased levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, contributing to the development of heart disease.
Excess intake of palmitic acid typically doesn’t cause immediate symptoms but can contribute to long-term health issues, such as: