Health Guide

Gadoleic acid

Have you ever heard of Gadoleic Acid? It might sound like a complex chemistry term, but it's actually a fascinating 'Omega-9' fatty acid that your body can produce on its own. Found primarily in fish oils and certain plant oils, this monounsaturated fat is gaining attention for its potential role in keeping our cells happy and inflammation levels in check. While your body is capable of making it, getting a little extra from your diet—especially from high-quality fish—can give your health a supportive boost. Think of it as a friendly helper for your heart and brain, working quietly behind the scenes to maintain balance.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Gadoleic acid
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Bioavailability: Natural Food vs. Synthetic Supplement

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Absorption Rate (%)
Source Type

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Supports Healthy Inflammation Response: Research suggests it helps modulate the body's inflammatory pathways.
  • Promotes Heart Health: Like other healthy fats, it contributes to flexible arteries.
  • Brain Cell Protection: It is a structural component of brain cell membranes.

Deep Dive

Gadoleic acid (C20:1) is a long-chain monounsaturated fatty acid. While Oleic acid (found in olive oil) is the most famous Omega-9, Gadoleic acid offers unique benefits due to its longer chain structure.

The Science: Studies, such as those published in Lipids in Health and Disease, indicate that this fatty acid can influence gene expression related to fat metabolism. It acts as a building block for signaling molecules that tell your body to 'calm down' after an immune response. Unlike saturated fats, it helps maintain the fluidity of your cell membranes, which is crucial for nutrients to enter and waste to exit your cells efficiently.

Natural Food Sources

Since your body can synthesize this from other fats, dietary intake is usually sufficient. The best sources are marine animals and specific seed oils.

| Food | Amount | % DV | |---|---|---| | Cod Liver Oil | 1 tbsp | High | | Herring | 3 oz | High | | Peanut Oil | 1 tbsp | Medium | | Marjoram (Spice) | 1 tsp | Low | | Nuts | 1 oz | Trace |

Supplementation

Usage: Most people do not need to supplement Gadoleic acid in isolation. It is best taken as part of a high-quality fish oil supplement or cod liver oil.

Dosage: There is no official RDA for Gadoleic acid specifically. However, general guidelines suggest 1-2 servings of fatty fish per week, or 1-2g of combined Omega-3/Omega-9 fatty acids daily via supplements.

Who should take it? Those with low fish intake or specific inflammatory conditions may benefit from the broader spectrum of fatty acids found in fish oil, which includes Gadoleic acid.

Top Food Sources

Cod Liver
Best concentrated source
Herring/Sardines
Eat whole fish
Peanut Oil
Cooking oil source
Marjoram (Dried)
Herb source
Cashew Nuts
Snack source

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Gadoleic acid is an Omega-9 (monounsaturated), whereas Omega-3s are polyunsaturated. However, they are often found together in fish oil.
Peanuts contain Gadoleic acid, but fish sources are generally considered superior due to the co-occurrence of EPA/DHA (true Omega-3s).
It is relatively stable, but deep frying at high heat can oxidize healthy fats. Steaming or baking is best.
Yes, specifically from low-mercury fish sources or quality cod liver oil (check Vitamin A levels), but always consult your doctor.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Side Effects

General Safety: Gadoleic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when consumed in dietary amounts. It is a natural component of many healthy foods.

Supplement Caution: If taking concentrated fish oil supplements (which contain this acid):

  • Blood Thinning: High doses of fish oil can have a mild blood-thinning effect. Use caution if you are on anticoagulants (like Warfarin) or preparing for surgery.
  • Digestion: Some people experience 'fish burps' or digestive upset. Taking with meals helps.
  • Allergies: Avoid if you have a known fish or shellfish allergy.

Purity Note: Always choose supplements certified by third parties (like IFOS) to ensure they are free from heavy metals like mercury.

Scientific References

  • [1]Calder, P. C. (2015). Marine omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: Effects, mechanisms and clinical relevance. *Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids*.
  • [2]Mozaffarian, D., et al. (2011). Changes in Diet and Lifestyle and Long-Term Weight Gain in Women and Men. *The New England Journal of Medicine*.
  • [3]Calder, P. C. (2018). Very long-chain n-3 fatty acids and human health: fact, fiction and the future. *Proceedings of the Nutrition Society*.