Good fats...bad fats...trans fatty acids...does it give you a big FAT headache? Here are some fast fat facts:

1. Saturated fat - Solid at room temperature it is found mainly in meat and dairy products. (Examples: marbling on meat, skin on chicken, butter, and cheese). It is also found in tropical oils like coconut and palm oil. A diet high in saturated fats has been linked to heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that your diet be low in saturated fat (10% or less of total calories).
2. Unsaturated fat - Liquid at room temperature. Occurs in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated forms. These are more commonly known as "good" fats.

• Polyunsaturated - Found in corn, safflower, sunflower, soybean, flaxseed, and cottonseed oils. Mackerel, sardines, tuna, and salmon contain omega 3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat.
• Monounsaturated - olive, peanut, sesame, canola oils, nuts and peanuts.

1. Partially hydrogenated oils - When liquid oils are made into solids (margarine or shortening) through the process of hydrogenation trans fatty acids are created which contribute to heart disease. Look for partially hydrogenated oils in crackers, cookies, pastries, and prepared foods. (Note: there are also naturally occurring trans fatty acids in milk which have not been shown to be harmful)

For more information about fats either call or e-mail me!

This is general information only and should not replace advice or instructions given to you by your physician.

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