There are lots of myths and facts about fats and cholesterol that often confuse most of us. Some may be misguided and started believing about certain ideas that actually are false. Are you one of those?
Here are the common myths about fats and cholesterol that you ought to know:
Myths: About Fats and Cholesterol #1: All Fats are the same. This is certainly false. There are two general types of fats, the good fats and the bad fats. Good fats are the polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart. These fats lower the LDL or the bad cholesterol and are good for overall health of an individual.
Bad fats are the saturated fats and Trans fats. These fats are considered bad because they are harmful for the heart. These fats increase the level of bad cholesterol and increase chances for cardiovascular diseases. Bad fats are those that are solid at room temperature.
Myths: About Fats and Cholesterol #2: Fats must be eliminated in the diet. This myth is definitely not true. Fats are required by the body for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E and K. Fats are crucial to keep as warm during cold season. It is also needed to have healthy hair and skin and to support neurological function.
Myths: About Fats and Cholesterol #3: Best diet is the one that gets rid of fats. Certainly this is false. Fats constitute 25 to 25 percent of our daily calorie needs. If we are going to remove it in our diet, we are taking out the vital nutrients and benefits of fats that we need.
Fats are needed to feel you are full. If you take it out from your diet, you end up piling more calories than you should. The best trick to diet is not cutting on fats, but to cut portion sizes, do exercise and lower intake of refined sugars.
Myths: About Fats and Cholesterol #4: I can consume good fats in unlimited amount. Good fats and bad fats when consumed in excess leads to weight gain. Remember that I gram of fat equals to nine calories regardless whether it is good or bad fat.
This means eating more of good fats could also lead to added pounds and more risk to health issues. Control your fat intake to 35 percent or less and choose good fats over bad fats.
Myths: About Fats and Cholesterol #5: Foods labeled Zero (0) Trans Fats are healthy choice. No, don't be misguided by this marketing technique. When trans-fat are zero, these fats could be replaced by another bad fat known as saturated fats.
Check the nutrition label. If you see presence of palm oil, coconut oil or palm kernel oil at the label, these are highly-saturated fats that are harmful for your health. Saturated fats increase chances for heart disease, stroke and high cholesterol.
