- are carboxylic acids with a long aliphatic tail

(chain), which is either saturated or

unsaturated.

- Fatty acids are usually derived from

triglycerides or phospholipids.
– those fatty acids that are necessary
for specific biochemical functions and
must be supplied in the diet.
 Precursor for the synthesis of prostacyclin, which
inhibits clumping of platelets and thus reduces
formation.
EPA is a carboxylic acid with a 20-carbon chain
and five cis double bonds.
 One of the major fatty acids in the
phospholipids of sperm and brain cells, as well
in the retina.
DHA's structure is a carboxylic acid with a
22-carbon chain and six cis double bonds.
Reduce the incidence of cardiovascular
disease.
α-Linolenic acid is a carboxylic acid with an
18-carbon chain and three cis double bonds.
 is a physiologically significant omega−6 fatty
acid and is the precursor for another fatty
acid which is arachidonic acid.
 linoleic acid is a carboxylic acid with an 18-
carbon chain and two cis double bonds.
is a polyunsaturated fatty acid present in the
phospholipids of membranes of the body's cells,
and is abundant in the brain, muscles, liver.

arachidonic acid is a carboxylic acid with a

20-carbon chain and four cis-double bonds.
- Examples of foods containing a high
proportion of saturated fat include animal fats
such as cream, cheese, butter, and ghee; suet,
tallow, lard, and fatty meats; as well as certain
vegetable products such as coconut oil,
cottonseed oil, palm kernel oil, chocolate, and
many prepared foods.
- Foods containing unsaturated fats include
avocado, nuts, and vegetable oils such as
canola and olive oils. Meat products contain
both saturated and unsaturated fats.