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Stearic Acid: The Saturated Fat That Behaves Differently
All NiaHealth tests are processed in Canadian-certified labs, which are highly trusted by the medical community for their accuracy and reliability. Blood and urine samples are collected by licensed medical professionals and processed using state-of-the-art equipment. NiaHealth is SOC2 Type 2 certified.
What is it?
This saturated fat is found in cocoa butter, beef, and dark chocolate. It can also be made by the body, so it is not an essential part of the diet.
Why it matters
Unlike most saturated fats, stearic acid does not increase “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. However the effects of stearic acid on overall heart health are not well understood, and it could contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and liver disease.
Reference ranges
Levels of individual fatty acids are not clinically helpful in isolation. Your Omega 3 Index, Omega-3/Omega-6 ratio, and EPA:AA ratio provide a more comprehensive assessment of your overall fatty acid status. We look at the results of those tests to determine whether you are getting the right amount.
This information is educational and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your results should be interpreted with a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your health history.
