Effects of dietary stearic acid on plasma cholesterol levels.

Dietary advice based on saturated versus unsaturated fatty acids for the purpose of controlling the plasma cholesterol level has for many years plagued the American public with unpalatable diets that are difficult to adhere to. Stearic acid, an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid, does not share the hypercholesterolemic effect of other saturated fatty acids and may be the key to more palatable diets for the cholesterol-conscious dieter in the future.