Is Omega-7 a Fatty Acid? The Truth About This Unique Nutrient

According to a study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, omega-7, specifically palmitoleic acid, acts as a signaling molecule in the body with hormone-like effects, influencing metabolic regulation. In response to the question, "is omega-7 a fatty acid?" the answer is a resounding yes, though it differs significantly from its more famous counterparts, omega-3 and omega-6.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nature of omega-7, detailing its classification as a monounsaturated fatty acid. It covers the primary types of omega-7, its key health benefits for metabolism and skin, and contrasts it with other omega fats. It also highlights major dietary sources and addresses common misconceptions.

Key Points

• Confirmation: Yes, omega-7 is a monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), with palmitoleic acid being the most common form.

• Non-Essential Status: Unlike omega-3, omega-7 is considered non-essential because the body can synthesize it from other fats.

• Key Benefits: Research points to omega-7's positive effects on metabolic health, including cholesterol regulation and insulin sensitivity, as well as skin and mucous membrane hydration.

• Primary Sources: The richest plant-based source is sea buckthorn oil, while macadamia nuts also contain significant amounts. Vaccenic acid, another omega-7, is found in dairy.

• Unique Function: Omega-7 can act as a lipokine, a hormone-like signaling molecule released by fat tissue to influence other organs.

• Supplement Considerations: While not essential, supplementation, often with sea buckthorn oil, is an option for those looking to boost their intake for specific health concerns, but always consult a doctor first.

What Exactly is an Omega-7 Fatty Acid?

Omega-7 is classified as a monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA). It is distinguished by having one double bond in its carbon chain, located seven carbon atoms away from the omega end. The most studied omega-7 is palmitoleic acid, present in human adipose tissue and certain plants, while vaccenic acid is another type found in some dairy products. Unlike essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, omega-7 is non-essential as the body can produce it.

Key Types and Sources of Omega-7

Omega-7 fatty acids primarily consist of palmitoleic acid and vaccenic acid.

• Palmitoleic Acid: Abundant in certain plant oils, its richest botanical source is sea buckthorn oil. Macadamia nut oil also contains a notable amount, with smaller quantities found in avocado and olive oil.
• Vaccenic Acid: This trans fat is mainly found in ruminant animal products like dairy and butter. The body can convert vaccenic acid into palmitoleic acid.

Health Benefits Associated with Omega-7

Ongoing research highlights several potential health benefits of omega-7, focusing on metabolic and skin health.

• Cardiovascular Health: Palmitoleic acid may support heart health by helping to manage cholesterol levels, potentially lowering LDL and increasing HDL cholesterol.
• Metabolic Syndrome: Omega-7 may help address metabolic syndrome by potentially reducing insulin resistance and improving blood lipid profiles.
• Skin and Mucous Membrane Health: As a component of sebum, omega-7 aids in skin hydration, elasticity, and regeneration, helping to combat dryness.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest omega-7 has anti-inflammatory properties that support overall well-being.

Comparison: Omega-7 vs. Omega-3

Here's a comparison of omega-7 and omega-3:

Feature	Omega-7 (e.g., Palmitoleic Acid)	Omega-3 (e.g., EPA, DHA)
Classification	Monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA)	Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)
Essential Status	Non-essential (body can synthesize it)	Essential (body cannot produce it)
Double Bonds	One double bond	Multiple double bonds (3 or more)
Key Benefits	Metabolic regulation, skin & mucous membrane health, anti-inflammatory support	Brain function, cardiovascular health, joint health, inflammatory response
Primary Sources	Sea buckthorn oil, macadamia nuts, certain animal fats	Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseed, walnuts, chia seeds
Role as Lipokine	Acts as a signaling molecule released by fat tissue	Primarily known for anti-inflammatory eicosanoids and cell structure

Is Supplementation Necessary for Omega-7?

Since the body can produce omega-7, supplementation isn't strictly necessary, unlike for essential fatty acids. However, increasing intake through diet or supplements may be considered for specific health goals like improving skin hydration or metabolic markers. Sea buckthorn oil is a common supplement source. Consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements.

Conclusion

Omega-7 is indeed a fatty acid, specifically a monounsaturated one, with key forms being palmitoleic acid and vaccenic acid. Although not essential, its potential role in metabolic regulation and skin health is gaining scientific attention. Found significantly in sources like sea buckthorn and macadamia nuts, omega-7 offers distinct benefits that contribute to overall health alongside other omega fatty acids. Understanding its unique properties is valuable for a comprehensive view of nutritional health.

Authoritative Source

• Frigolet, M., & Gutierrez-Aguilar, R. (2017). The Role of the Novel Lipokine Palmitoleic Acid in Health and Disease. Advances in Nutrition, 8(1), 173S–181S. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312519410_The_Role_of_the_Novel_Lipokine_Palmitoleic_Acid_in_Health_and_Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

Is omega-7 the same as omega-3?

No, omega-7 is not the same as omega-3. While both are fatty acids, omega-7 is a monounsaturated fat (MUFA) with one double bond, whereas omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) with multiple double bonds.

Does omega-7 have anti-inflammatory properties?

Yes, some studies suggest that omega-7, particularly palmitoleic acid, possesses anti-inflammatory effects that can support overall health. These effects contribute to its potential benefits for conditions like metabolic syndrome.

Can I get omega-7 from fish oil?

While some fish oils may contain small amounts of omega-7, they are not a significant source. Fish oil is primarily known for its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA.

What are the best dietary sources of omega-7?

The most potent and celebrated source of omega-7 is sea buckthorn oil. Other dietary sources include macadamia nuts, macadamia nut oil, and dairy products that contain vaccenic acid.

Is omega-7 beneficial for skin health?

Yes, omega-7 is known for its skin and mucous membrane benefits. It helps to hydrate the skin, improve its elasticity, and promote tissue regeneration, making it a valuable nutrient for combating skin dryness and aging.

Can omega-7 help with weight management?

Some animal studies indicate that omega-7 may influence satiety and metabolic regulation, potentially supporting weight management efforts. It may signal the body to stop storing fat, though more human research is needed.

Should I take an omega-7 supplement?

Since the body can produce omega-7, it is not considered essential to supplement. However, for those seeking to specifically target metabolic or skin health, a supplement from a rich source like sea buckthorn oil may be an option, but it's best to consult a healthcare provider first.