Fatty Acids are the basic constituents (parts) of
many important lipids (fats), including e.g. triglycerides. In terms
of their chemistry, fatty acids are organic acids that
have long straight hydrocarbon chains and an even number of carbon atoms.
In the same way as amino
acids, some fatty acids can be synthesized (formed) in the body
but others, called "essential fatty acids"
must be obtained from the diet, i.e. ingested within foodstuffs - including
beverages.
Examples of fatty acids include: palmitic acid,
oleic acid, stearic acid.
