Fatty acids are an important part of a balanced diet and play a fundamental role in human physiology. These organic molecules are composed of hydrocarbon chains and carboxyl groups. Fatty acids are essential components of cell membranes and help maintain their integrity and functionality. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids play a key role in cell signaling processes, influencing gene expression and cellular communication. In addition, these fatty acids are an important source of energy and help with metabolic processes and overall body function.
Classification of fatty acids
Fatty acids are organic acids with carbon atom chains. According to their different characteristics such as carbon chain length, double bond position and saturation, they can be divided into the following main types:
- Saturated fatty acids: There are no double bonds in their carbon chains, and all carbon atoms are connected by single bonds. Common saturated fatty acids include stearic acid, palmitic acid and capric acid.
- Unsaturated fatty acids: They contain one or more double bonds in their carbon chains. According to the position and number of double bonds, unsaturated fatty acids are divided into monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Common unsaturated fatty acids include oleic acid, linoleic acid and linolenic acid.
- Long-chain fatty acids: Their carbon chain length exceeds 12 carbon atoms. Common long-chain fatty acids include capric acid, lauric acid and stearic acid.
- Medium-chain fatty acids: Their carbon chain length is between 6-12 carbon atoms. Common medium-chain fatty acids include capric acid and caprylic acid.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids: They have two or more double bonds. Common polyunsaturated fatty acids include linoleic acid and linolenic acid.
Fatty acids play important physiological functions in organisms and play an important role in health. Different types of fatty acids have different contents and proportions in food, which affects our dietary structure and health status.
Biological Activity and Health Benefits
The biological activity of fatty acids is not limited to structural roles. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, have anti-inflammatory properties and play a key role in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health. In addition, these fatty acids have been linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
About Us
We offer a variety of fatty acid products, including different types of fatty acids such as Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9. These products are usually provided in softgels or liquid form, so you can choose the one that suits your health needs and lifestyle. Fatty acids are very important for human health and can help maintain cardiovascular health, promote brain function, support the immune system and many other functions. If you want to know more about our product needs, please feel free to contact our customer service team and we will be happy to help you.
Reference
- Chen, Jiapeng, and Hongbing Liu. Nutritional indices for assessing fatty acids: A mini-review. International journal of molecular sciences 2020, 21(16): 5695.
Alfa Chemistry offers a wide range of fatty acids that are raw materials that can be added to functional foods or used as dietary supplements. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.
Our products and services are for research use only and cannot be used for any clinical purposes.
