From Cholesterol to Blood Sugar: The Surprising Effects of Pinoleic Acid on Metabolic Health
Pinoleic acid is an unsaturated lipid found only in pine nut oil. From a chemical standpoint, it is an isomer of gamma-linoleic acid, an essential fat in the omega 6 series that has been linked to a variety of health benefits; this means that pinoleic acid and gamma-linoleic acid have the same rough formula, but their carbon atoms are joined differently.
Pinoleic acid is used for what?
Pinoleic acid is thought to diminish hunger by acting on two hormones known as appetite suppressants, CCK and GLP-1. Pinoleic acid, in particular, acts on CCK to decrease stomach emptying and enhance fullness. Instead, the targeted action on GLP-1 would slow down food absorption, resulting in a sense of satiety and a reduction in the desire to consume more.
It also appears to help lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels by increasing the liver’s uptake of harmful cholesterol. GLP-1 would also have a role in this scenario, as greater amounts are connected with lower blood cholesterol levels.
Finally, high levels of GLP-1 have been linked to a decrease in blood glucose.
Currently, supplements containing pinoleic acid (particularly pine nut oil) are frequently recommended as hunger suppressants and digestive health boosters. They are also indicated for increasing brain energy and acting as antioxidants.
However, it appears that the EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has not accepted claims on the potential benefits of consuming pinoleic acid-containing goods.
Warnings and Possible Contraindications
There are no known contraindications for pine nut oil, or more particularly, pinoleic acid. However, it is impossible to rule out the likelihood that their consumption will cause allergic reactions.
In case of uncertainty, consult your doctor before taking not just pinoleic acid-based products, but also other food supplements.
