Good Fat Lowers Risk of Heart Problem by a Fifth

Red meat is a key source of animal fats .
Replacing saturated fats with healthier options can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to a fifth, so an American study confirms.
The Harvard Medical School report adds to the increasing evidence regarding polyunsaturated fats which are found in certain fish and vegetable oils .
In their research, the team reviewed 8 previous studies of more than 13,000 people, in their research.
They found that reducing saturated fats, as found in butter and meat, is just a part of a healthy diet .
Adults ought not to get more than 11% of their energy from saturated fats.
The findings highlight that polyunsaturated fats would be a preferred replacement for saturated fats for improved heart health .
Saturated fats are unhealthy as they increase the levels of bad cholesterol which block the arteries to the heart.
On the other hand, polyunsaturated fats work in the opposite way by increasing levels of good cholesterol .
The Harvard analysis suggests that for each 5% increase in polyunsaturated fat consumption there is a related 10% decrease in heart disease.
It is essential to reduce saturated fats. However, one must be careful not replace it with further unhealthy options like trans-fats found in processed foods like biscuits and cakes.
The study findings suggest that polyunsaturated fats are a preferred replacement for saturated fats for improved heart health.
It is essential to eat oily fish as well as a minimum of five portions of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis.