Facts about fat
There are three main types of fat: saturated, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated. Not all fats are bad for cholesterol and some fats—when consumed in moderation—are even helpful in controlling it. It’s actually the type of fat not the total amount of fat in a diet, that’s most important.
Saturated Fat – this fat is found mostly in animal fats (dairy and meat) and is the fat most responsible for raising the level of cholesterol within our diets. One of the ways to help lower blood cholesterol is to eat less saturated fat. Replace butter with a spread such as Logicol® spread; eat lean meats instead of fatty meats and sausages; choose low fat options for cheese, ice cream and dairy eg. Logicol® 98% fat free yoghurt; and eat less cakes, biscuits, snack foods and takeaway foods.
Polyunsaturated Fat – this fat is often referred to as ‘essential’ fat, because polyunsaturated fats contain essential nutrients that cannot be produced by the body. Use a polyunsaturated oil (like sunflower oil) when cooking.
Monounsaturated Fat – scientific evidence suggests this fat has little or no effect on reducing blood cholesterol. It is found in olive oil and peanut oil.