Fat is a hot topic in the health and wellness industry. We hear a lot of conversations about how bad it is, but is fat really the enemy? As a cardiologist, I can say that the answer is not so simple.

In this article, I want to share with you the real truth about fat.

What is fat?

Fat is a macronutrient that is essential for our bodies. It is a concentrated source of energy that helps to insulate and protect our organs, keeps our skin healthy, and helps our body to absorb and use vitamins.

Not all fats are created equal

When we talk about fats, it is important to note that not all fats are created equal. There are four main types of fat:.

Saturated fat

Saturated fats are typically found in animal products such as meat, butter, and cheese. They are also found in some plant-based oils such as coconut oil.

These fats tend to be solid at room temperature, and they have been shown to increase LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

Trans fat

Trans fats are created when liquid vegetable oils are partially hydrogenated. This process turns the oils into a solid form, making them more shelf-stable.

Trans fats are often found in processed foods such as baked goods, fried foods, and packaged snacks. They have been linked to increased LDL cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease.

Monounsaturated fat

Monounsaturated fats are typically found in plant-based oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, and canola oil. These fats have been shown to have a positive effect on cholesterol levels in the blood, and they may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Polyunsaturated fat

Polyunsaturated fats are also found in plant-based oils such as soybean oil, corn oil, and sunflower oil. These fats are important for brain function and may help to reduce inflammation in the body.

The role of fat in heart disease

For many years, fat was believed to be the primary cause of heart disease. However, recent research has shown that the relationship between fat and heart disease is more complex than we once thought.

Dietary fat and cholesterol

As I mentioned earlier, saturated and trans fats have been shown to increase LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart disease.

However, research has also shown that dietary cholesterol (found in animal products such as egg yolks and shrimp) has little effect on blood cholesterol levels in most people.

The Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet is a diet that is rich in monounsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds. This diet has been shown to have a positive effect on heart health, and it may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.

The bottom line

Fat is an essential nutrient that our bodies need to function properly. However, not all fats are created equal, and some types of fat can increase the risk of heart disease.

It is important to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Conclusion

There is no question that the topic of fat is complex, but as a cardiologist, I can say that fat is not the enemy. The key is to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of fats and to avoid consuming too much saturated and trans fats.

By doing so, you can maintain a healthy heart and live a long and happy life.