polüküllastumatuteks

Polüküllastumatuteks is a Finnish term that translates to "polyunsaturated" in English, referring to a class of fatty acids. These fatty acids are characterized by the presence of more than one double bond in their carbon chain. This structural feature distinguishes them from monounsaturated fatty acids, which have only one double bond, and saturated fatty acids, which have no double bonds. The arrangement and number of these double bonds significantly influence the physical and chemical properties of the fatty acid and, consequently, the fats and oils that contain them.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are further categorized based on the position of the double bonds. Common examples include omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids, named according to the position of the first double bond relative to the methyl end of the fatty acid chain. These essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through diet. They play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including cell membrane structure, hormone production, and inflammatory responses. Dietary sources of polyunsaturated fats include vegetable oils such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oil, as well as nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.