Definition & Meaning of "monounsaturated fatty acid"

What is "monounsaturated fatty acid"?

Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are a type of unsaturated fat found in various foods, including olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds. Unlike saturated fats, which are solid at room temperature, and polyunsaturated fats, which contain multiple double bonds, monounsaturated fats have one double bond in their molecular structure. This chemical composition gives them a liquid consistency at room temperature while providing health benefits similar to polyunsaturated fats. MUFAs are known to help improve blood cholesterol levels by lowering LDL cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, they are a key component of the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation.