The two most common omega-7 fatty acids in nature are palmitoleic acid and vaccenic acid. Rich sources include dairy products (vaccenic acid), macadamia nut oil and sea buckthorn berries that are used to make both nutritional supplements and skin care products. Anotheruseful source is avocado. Less common omega-7 fatty acid - Paullinic acid - is found in guarana.
Omega-7 can reduce risk of type II diabetes, prevent the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque, increase beneficial cholesterol and reduce inflammation.
When omega-7 fatty acids accumulate in the oily sebum that lubricates the skin, they are broken down into the chemical 2-noneal, which causes the phenomenon known as "old people smell." Frequent washing and specially formulated cosmetics eliminate the smell.