Omega-7 fatty acids
See also :
Omega-7 fatty acids are a class of unsaturated fatty acids in which the site of unsaturation is seven carbon atoms from the end of the carbon chain. The two most common omega-7 fatty acids in nature are palmitoleic acid and vaccenic acid. Omega-7s are considered non-essential fatty acids, which means your body can make enough omega-7s to function properly. In other words, you don’t need to get them from foods or supplements. Rich sources include macadamia nut oil and Sea Buckthorn oil.
The monounsaturated omega-7 fatty acids have the general chemical structure CH3-(CH2)5-CH=CH-(CH2)n-CO2H.
| Common name | Lipid name | Chemical name |
|---|---|---|
| none | 12:1 (n−7) | 5-Dodecenoic acid |
| none | 14:1 (n−7) | 7-Tetradecenoic acid |
| Palmitoleic acid | 16:1 (n−7) | 9-Hexadecenoic acid |
| Vaccenic acid | 18:1 (n−7) | 11-Octadecenoic acid |
| Paullinic acid | 20:1 (n−7) | 13-Eicosenoic acid |
| none | 22:1 (n−7) | 15-Docosenoic acid |
| none | 24:1 (n−7) | 17-Tetracosenoic acid |
Special Precautions of Omega-7 fatty acids
When omega-7 fatty acids accumulate in the oily sebum that lubricates the skin, they are broken down into the chemical 2-noneal, which causes the phenomenon known as "old people smell." Frequent washing and specially formulated cosmetics eliminate the smell. Taking omega-7 supplements gives you the health benefits without causing accumulation of omega-7's in your skin.
Benefits and uses of Omega-7 fatty acids are
Your body does not need omega-7's to function. Certain, specific omega-7's have desired health effects. weight loss (most beneficial for people on a low-carb diet), lowering cholesterol and preventing type 2 diabetes. Common dietary sources of omega-7 fatty acids include wild salmon, macadamia nuts, and sea buckthorn berries.
- can provide essential health benefits in weight loss and cholesterol control.
- helps regulate fat and blood sugar metabolism (in adipose tissue and in the pancreas). In vitro studies suggest that omega-7 helps improve the function of the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas.
- Skin health : Omega-7 is a major fatty acid in epithelial cell membranes. This means skin, blood vessels, and mucous membranes. The presence of omega-7 in the epithelial cell membrane plays a protective role including inhibiting bacterial growth, as well promoting tissue recovery and healing. When Omega-7 fatty acids are applied directly to the skin, they can help keep skin smooth, flexible and hydrated. Research specifically on sea buckthorn oil, (which contains 30 to 40 percent omega-7), shows its role in improving eczema, acne, oral and stomach ulcers, and vaginal irritation/dryness.
