Many of us consume lots of food varieties without taking notice of the fat values. Given that a greasy fatty meal sure has a greater value of fat in it, we cannot tell if those fats are good or not. To ensure absolute health improvement, it is important to the concept behind the appropriate fat values, along with other nutritional facts.
Food varieties include different amount and type of fats. Basically, these fats are categorized as good or bad, according to the effects it can cause within our body. There are four types of fats namely monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated, saturated and trans-fats. They are also found in different foods and dishes and varying amounts may result an impact with out health improvements.
Monounsaturated Fats
Monounsaturated fats are considered as good and health fats. They are commonly found in a variety of nuts, olives, fruits like avocados and some oils. They turn into a liquid form when exposed in a room temperature. In other words, monounsaturated fats melt easier compared to the other types of fats. They turn solid or semisolid when stored inside the refrigerator or freezers. Monounsaturated fats are said to decrease LDL or low-density lipoprotein in our body. These lipoproteins serve as a transport agent of cholesterol through our blood vessels. An increase amount of low density lipoprotein within our bloodstream will cause a serious health problem, which is why it is important to keep it low.
Polyunsaturated Fats
The sources for polyunsaturated fats include seeds, corns, canola oils, some seafood, leafy vegetables and sunflowers. Take note that to retain the essence of polyunsaturated fats in various food types, they are to be prepared fresh and whole. Two essential acids namely the alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid is under this fat type. Omega three fatty acids are also considered as polyunsaturated fats. This type of fat is needed to cellular developments and hormonal functions.
Saturated Fats
You can find saturated fats in various animal products such as animal meats and dairy products. They stay in a solid form under room temperature. Fatty acids under this type of fat are the stearic acid, lauric acid, butyric acid and palmitic acid. Saturated fats are not really considered as health fats, as they contain an increased amount of saturated fatty acids.
Trans Fats
Trans fats are unsaturated fats combined with trans-isomer fatty acids. These fatty acids are not considered as essential, and can cause an increase amount of low density lipoprotein in the bloodstream by decreasing the amount of HDL (high density lipoprotein). HDL’s are considered as the “good” lipoprotein. Trans fats are commonly found in animal fats, baked foods and snack foods.
