Which type of dietary fat is generally recognized as healthy for heart health?

Unsaturated fats are widely recognized as beneficial for heart health. They are typically found in plant-based oils, nuts, seeds, avocados, and fish. These fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and may improve good cholesterol levels (HDL), which lowers the risk of heart disease.

Unsaturated fats are categorized into monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Monounsaturated fats, found in olive oil and avocados, have been shown to have positive effects on heart health. Polyunsaturated fats include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for the body and can help reduce inflammation and the risk of heart disease.

In contrast, saturated fats, primarily found in animal products, can contribute to increased cholesterol levels, and trans fats, which are largely artificial and present in partially hydrogenated oils, are linked to detrimental health effects, including an increase in bad cholesterol and a decrease in good cholesterol. Hydrogenated fats, which are often used in processed foods, share similar negative characteristics with trans fats. Thus, unsaturated fats are emphasized in a heart-healthy diet.