Fatty acids are essential components of lipids and serve as a crucial energy source for the body. They are classified into saturated and unsaturated types and are often derived from dietary fats. Fatty acids play a vital role in cellular structure, energy storage, and various metabolic processes. They are required for the synthesis of complex molecules such as phospholipids, which form cell membranes, and triglycerides, which store energy in adipose tissue. Some fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, are considered essential as the human body cannot synthesize them and must obtain them from the diet, primarily from sources like fish, nuts, and vegetable oils.
