The term fat usually refer to triglyceride that are solid at room temperature where as oils are liquids at room temperature.
ARE ALL FATS BAD FOR OUR HEALTH?
This question frequently arise in our mind. Fats are of two types good fats and bad fats.
WHAT ARE THEY MADE UP OF?
Fats are made up of fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids promote cancer growth while omega-3 block it.
WHAT ARE GOOD FAT AND BAD FAT?
GOOD FAT are made up of unsaturated fats. These oils are good for your health and contains MUFA(mono unsaturated fatty acids) and PUFA(poly unsaturated fatty acids). They help in lowering down your cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are found in olives, groundnuts, mustard, sesame seeds, flax seed, etc. Olive oil is richest in MUFA which help in lowering down cholesterol levels.
Another type of fat is essential fatty acid. These are necessary for growth and development. These are essential because body cannot produce them on own. Omega-3 and Omega-6 are essential fatty acids. Omega-3 is found in walnut,fish,soybean,leafy vegetable,flax seed. Omega-6 is found in vegetable oil made from corn,safflower,cotton seed,sunflower,etc.
BAD FAT re saturated fat and trans fatty acids. Both raise cholesterol levels,clogging in arteries, other heart related problems. Saturated fat are found in animal products like meat, dairy products,etc and fats that are liquid at room temperature such as coconut and palm oil.
"The best way to keep on top of fat in your diet is to read labels."
TIPS WHICH WILL HELP IN REDUCTION OF TOTAL AMOUNT OF FAT IN YOUR DIET :
- Include whole grain, fruits and vegetables in diet.
- Opt low fat or skimmed dairy products.
- Avoid fatty dressings or go for light dressings.
- Go for refined oils like canola oil, olive oil, soybean oil, etc.
- Reduce your consumption of high fatty and refined foods.
Read nutritional label and make healthy choice. Go for food item that are low in total fat and trans fats.
Enjoy journey to health..!!