HealthAugust 8, 2026

polyunsaturated

PAH-lee-un-SA-chuh-ray-ted

Definition

A type of fat molecule containing two or more double bonds in its carbon chain, which remain liquid at room temperature.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'polus' (many) and 'unsaturated' (chemical term meaning the molecule could accept more hydrogen atoms). It entered English in the mid-20th century as nutritional science began distinguishing between different types of dietary fats.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe specific fatty acids like Omega-3s and Omega-6s, clarifying that their health impact depends on their total levels rather than just their ratio to one another.

Omega-3s and Omega-6s: It’s Not the Balance but the Levels That Matter

Read the full article ↗

Nutritional Outlook

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