Fatty Acid Metabolism & Balance Flashcards

Which two fatty acids are considered truly 'essential' because the human body cannot synthesize them?

Answer: Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) must come from the diet. EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid can be made from them, although conversion is often inefficient.

Prostaglandins derived from arachidonic acid (series 2) generally have which effect?

Answer: Pro-inflammatory and pro-clotting

Series 2 prostaglandins from arachidonic acid promote inflammation, platelet aggregation, and pain. These are necessary for healing but harmful in excess. Series 1 and series 3 (from EPA) tend to be anti-inflammatory.

Which hormone signals the gallbladder to release bile when dietary fat enters the duodenum?

Answer: Cholecystokinin (CCK)

CCK is released by the duodenal lining in response to fat and protein. It stimulates gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion, both of which are needed to emulsify and digest fats.

Which vitamins depend on adequate dietary fat and bile flow for absorption?

Answer: Vitamins A, D, E, and K

Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. They are absorbed with dietary fat in micelles, so poor fat digestion or low-fat diets can cause deficiencies.

Which fat is most chemically stable for high-heat cooking?

Answer: Coconut oil or ghee

Saturated fats such as coconut oil and ghee have no double bonds that can oxidize, so they resist heat damage. Polyunsaturated oils (flax, walnut, corn) oxidize easily and form harmful byproducts.

Artificial trans fats are primarily created by which process?

Answer: Partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils

Partial hydrogenation forces hydrogen into liquid oils to make them solid and shelf-stable. This creates trans configurations that disrupt cell membranes and raise cardiovascular risk.