Plasma Free Fatty Acid Levels in Adults: Aging Associated Changes

Abstract

Aim: Aging and elevated fasting plasma free fatty acids levels are associated with an increase in risk of chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine and to compare the mean plasma free fatty acid levels of healthy adults according to age groups. Subjects and Methods: The study was carried out in a subpopulation of healthy 2094 men and 3335 women, aged 18-64 years that were selected from Turkey Health and Nutrition Survey-2010 population, in order to availability of plasma amino and fatty acids levels and 24 hour dietary recall data. Mean plasma free fatty acid levels were determined and compared according to age groups. Results: With aging, the fasting levels of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids increased in the plasma in men, women and total. Increment in individual saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids levels in plasma with aging were different in men and women. Conclusion: In this study mean plasma free fatty acid levels of adults were presented. Our results were in accordance with previous studies that showed plasma free fatty acid levels increased with aging. In the management of increased chronic disease risk in aging, monitoring the plasma free fatty acid levels can be suggested.