What is pentadecanoic acid (C15:0)?

Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid found in certain foods, especially dairy fat and ruminant meats. It is also studied as a circulating biomarker linked to metabolic health.

What foods contain pentadecanoic acid (C15:0)?

Common dietary sources include dairy fat (such as butter and full-fat dairy) and ruminant meats. Smaller amounts may be present in some fish and plants.

What are the potential health benefits of C15:0?

Higher circulating C15:0 levels have been associated with better cardiometabolic markers in observational research. Early evidence also suggests possible anti-inflammatory and liver-supportive effects, but more human studies are needed.

What is a typical dosage range for C15:0 supplements?

A commonly used supplemental range is about 100–300 mg per day. Individual needs can vary based on diet, health status, and clinician guidance.

Is C15:0 proven to prevent or treat disease?

No. Current evidence is emerging and includes observational findings and early-stage studies, so C15:0 should not be considered a proven treatment for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver disease, or cancer.

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Pentadecanoic Acid
(C15:0)

Limited research available·3/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Odd-chain saturated fatty acid found in dairy and certain animal products, associated with metabolic, liver, and cardiovascular benefits based on emerging evidence.

Anti-inflammatory Cardiovascular Support Cancer-inhibitor Essential Nutrient Glucose Metabolism Liver Health

dose range

100–300 mg

Once daily

Consumption

Take with meals to improve absorption. Prefer sources or supplements derived from dairy, ruminant meat, or confirmed plant-based C15:0 extracts if dairy allergies exist.

Fat-soluble: take with fat.

Best time

Best taken with food (typically breakfast or lunch) to enhance absorption.

Description

Pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid found in dairy fat, ruminant meats, and some fish and plants. It has garnered attention as a potential essential fatty acid with possible roles in supporting metabolic and cardiovascular health.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Limited

Note on evidence

Preliminary human and animal studies show potential cardiometabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits, but larger, long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

Supports Cardiometabolic Health

Limited

Higher circulating levels of C15:0 have been associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome; supplementation may modestly lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose in preliminary studies.

Particularly relevant for: adults · metabolic syndrome · high cardiovascular risk

1 · Nature 3 · Journal of Nutrition

Reduces Inflammation

Limited

In vitro and early clinical evidence indicate C15:0 may lower inflammatory cytokines, such as MCP-1 and IL-6, suggesting a role in managing chronic inflammation.

Particularly relevant for: adults · chronic inflammation

2 · PLoS ONE

Promotes Liver Health

Limited

A 12-week clinical trial showed C15:0 supplementation increased circulating levels and reduced liver enzymes (ALT, AST) in individuals with elevated baseline levels, implying liver protective effects.

Particularly relevant for: adults · liver health concerns

3 · Journal of Nutrition

Potential Anti-Cancer Effects

Theoretical

Preliminary cell studies suggest pentadecanoic acid may suppress breast cancer stem-like cell growth, but human data are lacking.

Particularly relevant for: researchers · oncology (experimental)

4 · Nutrients

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Pentadecanoic acid appears well-tolerated in short-term studies, but data on safety during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and with long-term use are lacking.

warning notices

No major adverse effects reported at typical supplemental dosages in short-term studies.
Potential allergenicity if derived from dairy or animal sources; plant-based C15:0 is also available.
Long-term safety is unknown, especially in vulnerable populations.
Avoid if allergic to dairy- or animal-derived ingredients, unless a plant-based source is confirmed.
Use cautiously in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.
Consult a healthcare provider before use if you have metabolic disorders or take lipid-lowering medications.

Known interactions with medications

Lipid-lowering medications (e.g., statins): Theoretical risk of additive or antagonistic effects; clinical significance unknown.

Contraindications / special precautions

Known allergy to dairy or animal products unless confirmed plant-based source.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

mechanisms of action

Brief explanations of how it works

Acts as an AMPK Activator

C15:0 activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy balance and metabolism, potentially leading to beneficial effects on glucose and lipid profiles.

1 · Nature

Inhibits mTOR Pathway

Reported to inhibit the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), influencing metabolic pathways linked to aging, cellular growth, and insulin sensitivity.

1 · Nature 3 · Journal of Nutrition