What type of fatty acids are considered healthy fats?

Unsaturated fatty acids are recognized as healthy fats due to their beneficial effects on heart health and overall well-being. These fats are typically found in plant-based oils, nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish. Unsaturated fats are categorized into monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, both of which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood, lower the risk of heart disease, and provide essential fatty acids that the body cannot produce on its own.

In contrast, saturated fatty acids, often found in animal products and some tropical oils, can raise cholesterol levels and are associated with increased heart disease risk when consumed in excess. Trans fatty acids, which are commonly formed during industrial processing and found in many processed foods, have been shown to have negative effects on heart health and are considered harmful. Cholesterol is a type of lipid that is necessary for various bodily functions but is not classified as a fatty acid. Therefore, equating healthy fats with unsaturated fatty acids is grounded in research linking them to positive cardiovascular outcomes and overall health.