Fats are an essential part of healthy eating.
Choosing the right types of fat to eat can make a big difference to our heart health. Find out which unhealthy fats to avoid, and which fats you need for good health.
Fats and cholesterol
-
Healthy fats
The best fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated (omega-3 and omega-6) fats. Eat more of these healthier fats to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Learn more about healthy fats to eat.
-
Saturated and trans fats
Saturated fat comes from animal-based foods, like meat, poultry and butter. But it's also in coconut-based products. Too much unhealthy saturated and trans fat increases your risk of heart disease.
Learn more about saturated fat and trans fats.
-
Cholesterol in food
Cholesterol is a fat in your blood, which is also in foods. In food, cholesterol only has a small effect on the level of cholesterol in your blood.
Learn more about cholesterol and food.
-
Plant sterols
These cholesterol-like substances can reduce cholesterol levels. They occur naturally in foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts and cereals.
Learn more about plant sterols and their health benefits.
