Saturated fatty acids found in dairy are often medium-chain and can have what effect on LDL cholesterol?

• A. They decrease LDL cholesterol
• B. They have no effect on LDL cholesterol
• C. Medium-chain saturated fatty acids can increase LDL cholesterol
• D. They are the primary source of LDL in the diet

Answer: (C)

Saturated fats differ by chain length, and this changes how they affect blood lipids. Medium-chain saturated fatty acids found in dairy are absorbed and processed differently from long-chain fats, but they still have the potential to raise LDL cholesterol. In particular, lauric acid among these fats tends to raise LDL (even though it can also raise HDL), so the overall effect can be an increase in LDL. This is why the statement that medium-chain saturated fatty acids can increase LDL cholesterol is the most consistent with how these fats influence blood lipids.