What Is cis-Eicosatetraenoic Acid (20:4 c)? What Foods Can I Find It In?
Cis-Eicosatetraenoic acid, or 20:4 c, is an intriguing straight-chain polyunsaturated cis fatty acid.
This unique compound is the cis-isomer of Eicosatetraenoic acid, 20:4, and is a vital member of the eicosanoid family.
Cis-Eicosatetraenoic acid plays a significant role as a major component of phosphatidylcholine and is involved in the production of prostaglandins.
These prostaglandins are lipid molecules synthesized at sites of tissue damage or infection, playing a crucial role in responding to injury and illness.
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The cis-Isomer of Eicosatetraenoic Acid
20:4 c is the cis-isomer of Eicosatetraenoic acid 20:4, and it's a polyunsaturated fatty acid (source ◳).
Isomers share identical chemical formulas but possess distinct structures.
In this case, 'cis-isomer' signifies that the functional groups are on the same side of the carbon chain, as opposed to the 'trans-isomer,' where they're on opposite sides of the chain (source ◳).
Benefits of Cis-Eicosatetraenoic Acid
Cis-Eicosatetraenoic acid is believed to have several remarkable benefits.
It's thought to help prevent retinal degeneration caused by light injury, and it's a powerful anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimetastatic agent.
Additionally, it might contribute to reducing vascular risk and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
Cis-Eicosatetraenoic Acid in Marine Lipids
This valuable fatty acid is predominantly found in animal sources and marine lipids.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids present in marine lipids appear to have a protective effect against coronary heart disease and thrombosis (source ◳).
Moreover, you can also find cis-Eicosatetraenoic acid in plant-based sources like flaxseed, soybeans, walnuts, oats, spinach, and peanut butter.
Foods with Cis-Eicosatetraenoic Acid (20:4 c)
You can primarily find cis-Eicosatetraenoic Acid (20:4 c) in poultry, pork, sausages, luncheon meats, dairy, and egg products. Here are some examples of food sources:
- Ground Turkey
- Cured Bacon
- Chorizo
- Italian Pork Sausage
- Butter
- Turkey Sausage
- Broilers Or Fryers Drumstick
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