Definition & Meaning of "unsaturated fatty acid"

What is "unsaturated fatty acid"?

Unsaturated fatty acids are a type of fat found in foods like nuts, seeds, fish, and vegetable oils. Unlike saturated fats, which are solid at room temperature, unsaturated fats remain liquid. This is because they have one or more double bonds in their molecular structure. These fats are often referred to as "healthy fats" because they can help lower levels of LDL cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol that can contribute to heart disease. Including unsaturated fats in your diet can also provide essential fatty acids that your body needs but cannot produce on its own. So, incorporating foods rich in unsaturated fats, like olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish, can be beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.