Monounsaturated Fatty Acids

Structure

One double bond introduces a bend (in the common cis configuration) that loosens molecular packing and lowers the melting point relative to a same-length SFA. Only one reactive allylic site exists, so oxidative stability remains high.

Health & Impact

MUFA-rich diets (olive oil, nuts, avocado) are associated with favourable LDL/HDL profiles and are central to the Mediterranean dietary pattern. Oleic acid is also a preferred oxidation-stable cooking fat.

Types & Sub-types

• Omega-9 (n-9) — Oleic, gadoleic, nervonic — non-essential, endogenously made.
• Omega-7 (n-7) — Palmitoleic, vaccenic — "lipokine" signalling fats.
• Trans-MUFA — Elaidic (industrial) and vaccenic (ruminant) geometric isomers.