Saturated Fatty Acids
Also known as: SaFAs
Description
Saturated Fatty Acids are the simplest types of Fatty Acids. They carry a Carboxyl (acid) group at one end and the rest of the molecule is fatty material. The fatty material is an arrangement of carbon atoms chained together and each of the remaining positions on the carbon atoms are filled (saturated) by hydrogen atoms. SaFA carbon chains are from 2 to 28 carbon atoms long. They are straight and contain no double bonds, are slow to react with other chemicals and carry no electrical charges. Saturated Fatty Acids are differentiated from Unsaturated Fatty Acids by the absence of double bonds in their chemical structure.
Health Benefits of Saturated Fatty Acids
Cells
Saturated Fatty Acids are a component of Cell Membranes.
Metabolism
Saturated Fatty Acids can be used within the Mitochondria of Cells in the production of Energy (after being metabolized endogenously to the two carbon Volatile Saturated Fatty Acid - Acetic Acid).
Saturated Fatty Acids may Enhance the Function of these Substances
Hormones
Saturated Fatty Acids may increase endogenous Testosterone levels. [1]
These Substances may Enhance the Function of Saturated Fatty Acids
Amino Acids
Carnitine acts as a carrier vehicle for transporting SaFAs into the Mitochondria for the production of Energy.
Toxic Effects of Saturated Fatty Acids
Cardiovascular System
Excessive consumption of Saturated Fatty Acids may increase the risk of Cardiovascular Diseases including various Heart ailments and Atherosclerosis. [2]
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