A fatty acid with multiple double bonds, liquid at room temperature, essential for brain and heart health.
A polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) is an unsaturated fatty acid containing two or more double bonds in its carbon chain.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) contain two or more double bonds, creating multiple 'kinks' that make them highly flexible molecules. The main categories of PUFAs are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential—meaning your body cannot synthesize them and must obtain them from food. PUFAs are critical for brain development, cardiovascular function, and reducing inflammation. However, they are more susceptible to oxidation than MUFAs, so storage and cooking methods matter. The balance between omega-6 and omega-3 PUFAs is particularly important for optimal health; modern diets tend to have excessive omega-6 relative to omega-3.
Polyunsaturated fats are essential for brain health, cardiovascular function, and inflammatory regulation.
Include fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) at least twice weekly for omega-3 PUFAs. Add plant-based PUFA sources like walnuts and flaxseeds to your diet. Avoid heating PUFAs excessively and store them in cool, dark conditions.
Polyunsaturated fats are essential nutrients critical for brain, heart, and immune function that must come from dietary sources.
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