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Types of Fats You Eat Can Affect Heart Health

March 30, 2005

Be a fat expert. Fats and oils are important parts of a healthful diet, but the type of fat you choose can make a big difference for the health of your heart.

The new 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that the majority of dietary fat come from two sources: monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, which are mostly derived from oils in plants. Common examples of monounsaturated fats are canola, olive and peanut oils. Sources of polyunsaturated fats include corn and soybean oils as well as many seeds, nuts and their oils.

For your heart’s sake, keep your fat intake between 20 percent and 35 percent of your total calories. Make sure most of your fats come from sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids like plant protein, nuts, vegetable oils and vegetable oil products like trans fat-free spreads, mayonnaise, salad dressings and peanut butter.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team