What are healthy fats and which are not
It is normal that most people might label all fats banned and criticized as having high-fat foods. However, not all fats are bad, are also those that our body needs to function. Today we will talk a bit about the different types of fat in order to recognize that harm and those that are beneficial to our body.
We can distinguish the type of fatty acids and the degree of unsaturation, including saturated fats, unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats) and trans fats.
Saturated fat. They consist of saturated fatty acids and at room temperature in solid state. If they are formed by long chain fatty acids can raise cholesterol levels and lead to circulation problems. Where is it? Most of these animal fats are in meat, milk and derivatives such as cream or yogurt. These fats belong to the group of fats that harm us.
Unsaturated fats. They are known primarily as oils, as are liquid at room temperature. These are good fats for the body, and its effects on lipids and also contain many nutrients that are essential for the body. They also have a positive effect on cholesterol control and heart disease. We can find them in olive oil, sunflower or corn. They are divided into two types:
- Monounsaturated: those that are found in olive oil or peanut. When cooled become thicker.
- Polyunsaturated: Examples of these are the sunflower seed oil, hazelnut oil, fish oils. Fatty acids are formed by the series omega 3 and omega 6.
Trans fats. These are what constitute a real problem and are much more harmful than saturated fats. This is because they are atherogenic transform from unsaturated to saturated by hydrogenation of vegetable oils. Found in the vegetable shortening, margarine, or any other food made with these ingredients. It must be very careful with them as they significantly increase cholesterol and can easily lead to heart disease.
Knowing each type of fat you can now choose your food with more knowledge.
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