There are different types of fat, some of which are significantly healthier for you than the other. Broadly there are saturated fats, unsaturated fats and trans fats. Trans fats are the unhealthiest for you and should be eaten in moderation as they raise the bad cholesterol (LDL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and lower the good cholesterol (HDL or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Trans fats may increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Examples of trans fats include: margarine, fried fast food and baked goods (cakes, cookies, pies made with hydrogenated vegetable oil). Saturated fats are an option which should also be eaten in moderation. Saturated fats raise both the LDL and HDL. Consuming large amounts of saturated fats may increase your risk of heart disease. Examples of saturated fats include: red meat and dairy products such as milk, cheese and butter. Unsaturated fats are the healthiest fat option. There are two different types, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats help to lower LDL and raise HDL which assists in lowering the risk of heart disease. Examples of monounsaturated fats include olive oil, almonds, peanuts and avocado. Polyunsaturated fats can be high in omega-3 and omega-6 which assist in reducing the risk of heart disease and inflammation. Good sources of omega-3 include salmon, tuna, chia seeds, flax seeds and walnut. Good sources of omega-6 include grape seed oil, nuts and seeds.
What fats do you consume the most of? Can you lower your trans and saturated fat intake and increase your unsaturated fat intake? ☺️
