Main Types of Dietary Lipids

Table 39.2 Main Types of Dietary Lipids Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Liquid at room temperature; essential for health. Omega—3 fatty acids Alpha—linolenic acid and its derivatives Sources: Nut oils, vegetable oils, oily fish Omega—6 fatty acids Linoleic acid and its derivatives Sources: Nut oils, vegetable oils, meat Monounsaturated Fatty Acids: Liquid at room temperature. Main dietary source is olive oil. Beneficial in moderation. Saturated Fatty Acids: Solid at room temperature. Main sources are meat and dairy products, palm and coconut oils. Excessive intake may raise risk of heart disease. Trans Fatty Acids (Hydrogenated Fats): Solid at room temperature. Manufactured from vegetable oils and used in many processed foods. Excessive intake may raise risk of heart disease.