Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which type of fatty acids contains one double bond?

1. Saturated fatty acids

2. Polyunsaturated fatty acids

3. Monounsaturated fatty acids

4. Trans fatty acids

The correct answer is: Monounsaturated fatty acids

The correct answer is monounsaturated fatty acids, as these are defined by the presence of one double bond in their chemical structure. Monounsaturated fatty acids are typically derived from plant sources and are found in foods such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts. They are known for their health benefits, particularly in terms of heart health, as they can help reduce bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol. Saturated fatty acids, in contrast, do not contain any double bonds; they are saturated with hydrogen atoms. Polyunsaturated fatty acids contain multiple double bonds, while trans fatty acids can be either saturated or unsaturated but are chemically altered through hydrogenation, resulting in a different configuration. Thus, the defining characteristic of monounsaturated fatty acids is their single double bond, which distinguishes them clearly from the other types of fatty acids mentioned.