Which Fats Are Good for Your Heart?

Here's a sneak peek at which fats are good—和 bad—for your heart.

Fats are an essential part of a healthy diet, but not all fats are created equal. Do you know which fats should be included in a heart-healthy diet 和 which ones to avoid?

Answer true or false to the following statements for some insight into the types of fat various foods contain 和 whether you're better off eating them or finding a healthier alternative.

Salmon, flaxseeds 和 walnuts are heart-healthy because they contain omega-3's.

• 正确的: These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower triglycerides 和 reduce inflammation. Making these foods a part of your diet is good for your heart.

Avocados should be avoided if you're eating for a healthy heart because they contain a lot of fat.

• 错误的: While avocados contain a small amount of saturated fat, which is not good for your heart, they are rich in heart-healthy poly- 和 monounsaturated fats. Studies have shown that poly- 和 monounsaturated fats help lower serum cholesterol levels 和 reduce the risk of heart disease.

Foods with saturated or trans fats, like red meat 和 processed foods, should be limited or avoided because they raise LDL levels.

• 正确的: Saturated 和 trans fats are not considered heart-healthy. They raise LDL cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol. It's best to limit these types of fats, found primarily in meat, full-fat dairy 和 processed foods like crackers 和 cookies, 尽可能多.

Avoiding trans fat is easy. Just read the Nutrition Facts section on food labels to see if they're in your food.

• 错误的: Food companies are only required to list trans fat in the Nutrition Facts if there is 0.5 grams or more per serving. To avoid trans fat completely, read the ingredient list 和 look for ingredients such as hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil.