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Myristoleic Acid

Also known as: Myristoleic acid, cis-9-tetradecenoic acid, C14:1

Overview

Myristoleic acid (C14:1, cis-9-tetradecenoic acid) is a naturally occurring monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) with 14 carbons and one double bond. It is found in small amounts in various animal fats and vegetable oils, including nut and seed oils, though it is less abundant than other common fatty acids like palmitic or oleic acid. While not a common standalone supplement, myristoleic acid is primarily investigated for its potential influence on lipid metabolism, cardiovascular risk, and glucose metabolism. Research on this fatty acid is of moderate maturity, with evidence largely derived from observational studies and meta-analyses of dietary intake biomarkers. Randomized controlled trials specifically examining myristoleic acid supplementation are limited, making direct causal inferences challenging. It is noted for its complex effects on cholesterol levels and potential distinct metabolic impacts compared to other fatty acids.

Benefits

Research suggests that dietary intake of myristoleic acid may offer certain health benefits, particularly concerning glucose metabolism. A meta-analysis indicated that higher dietary myristoleic acid intake is associated with a 17% decreased risk of type 2 diabetes when comparing the highest to lowest intake categories, suggesting a protective effect on glucose metabolism. This finding is statistically significant and comes from high-quality meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies. However, the overall impact on cardiovascular health is complex; myristoleic acid has also been linked to increased levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and HDL (good) cholesterol, more so than palmitic acid. This mixed effect on lipid profiles means that while it may offer benefits for diabetes risk, its net effect on cardiovascular risk is not entirely clear. Benefits are most relevant for populations at risk for type 2 diabetes, with effects observed over long-term dietary patterns rather than acute supplementation.

How it works

Myristoleic acid influences biological pathways primarily by modulating lipid metabolism and potentially affecting glucose regulation. It is believed to impact cholesterol synthesis and lipoprotein profiles, thereby affecting the cardiovascular system. While specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it likely interacts with enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism and cholesterol biosynthesis. Myristoleic acid may also affect membrane fluidity and signaling pathways related to insulin sensitivity, which could explain its observed association with reduced type 2 diabetes risk. Similar to other dietary fatty acids, it is absorbed and incorporated into plasma lipids and tissue membranes, where it can exert its metabolic effects.

Side effects

Myristoleic acid is generally regarded as safe when consumed at typical dietary levels, and no specific toxicity has been reported. Common side effects have not been documented in dietary studies, and uncommon or rare side effects are not well-documented due to the lack of dedicated supplementation trials. There are no known direct drug interactions, though its influence on lipid metabolism could theoretically interact with lipid-lowering medications. No contraindications have been established. Safety in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, children, or individuals with pre-existing metabolic disorders, has not been well-studied. While dietary intake is considered safe, the safety profile of isolated myristoleic acid supplementation remains largely uninvestigated.

Dosage

As myristoleic acid is typically consumed as part of dietary fats rather than an isolated supplement, specific dosing guidelines are not established. There is no minimum effective dose or optimal dosage based on randomized controlled trials. Dietary intake of myristoleic acid is generally low, typically around 1% of total fatty acids. A maximum safe dose has not been defined, but dietary intake is considered safe. There are no specific timing recommendations for consumption. Its absorption is similar to other fatty acids, depending on the dietary fat matrix and digestive efficiency. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its effects. Any potential benefits observed are associated with long-term dietary patterns rather than acute, high-dose supplementation.

FAQs

Is myristoleic acid supplementation beneficial?

Currently, there is no direct evidence from randomized controlled trials to support myristoleic acid supplementation. Any potential benefits are inferred from observational studies on dietary intake.

Is myristoleic acid safe?

Myristoleic acid is considered safe at typical dietary levels. However, the safety of isolated supplementation has not been well-studied, and caution is advised.

How long does it take to see effects from myristoleic acid?

Any observed benefits of myristoleic acid are associated with long-term dietary patterns rather than short-term or acute supplementation.

Does myristoleic acid raise cholesterol?

Yes, myristoleic acid tends to increase total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels more than some other saturated fats, which complicates its cardiovascular risk profile.

Is myristoleic acid better than other fatty acids?

While myristoleic acid may be associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, it has a more adverse effect on cholesterol levels compared to some other fatty acids, making its overall benefit profile complex.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7464661/ – This systematic meta-analysis by Fattore et al. (2020) analyzed data from 51 studies involving 1526 volunteers. It found that myristic acid intake increases cholesterol fractions (total, LDL, HDL) more significantly than palmitic acid, and is linked to a higher risk of ischemic heart disease. The study highlights the complex and potentially adverse effects of myristic acid on lipid profiles, despite being a well-conducted meta-analysis.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/83/5/897/7895736 – Schwingshackl et al. (2024) conducted a high-quality systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple prospective cohorts. Their findings indicate that dietary myristic acid intake is associated with a 17% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. This study provides strong observational evidence for a protective effect of myristic acid on glucose metabolism, although it acknowledges the potential for confounding factors.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36056919/ – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Gaeini et al. (2022) examined the relationship between saturated fatty acid intake and diabetes risk across multiple cohort studies. It concluded that there is no consistent harmful effect of total saturated fatty acids on diabetes, and specifically found an inverse association between myristic acid intake and diabetes risk. The study is a high-quality, recent meta-analysis, though it notes the potential for residual confounding in observational data.