3-thia TDA is an analog of the 14-carbon saturated fatty acid myristic acid, wherein the C-3 carbon has been replaced by sulfur in a thioether linkage. When chronically administered to rats, 3-thia TDA acts as a peroxisome inducer (PPAR ligand), increases fatty acid oxidation, and lowers plasma lipid levels. Incorporation of 3-thia TDA into dietary regimens at 150 and 300 mg/kg in rats induces the formation of oleic acid via .DELTA.9-desaturase, and dose-dependently increases .DELTA.9-desaturase mRNA levels.