Facts on Fats

Fats: Clarifying the facts Our body needs fat to function properly. The key is to focus on “healthy fats” and consume them in moderation as too much fat can negatively impact our health. Harmful fats (limit intake of these fats): · Saturated fat comes mainly from animal products.  Food sources:  beef poultry, butter, whole milk, cheese and eggs · Trans fat comes from adding hydrogen to vegetable oil through a process called hydrogenation.  Look for partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils on food labels.  Food sources:  certain margarines, shortenings, commercially prepared baked goods and fried foods such as donuts and French fries. Healthy fats (majority of fat intake should come from these fats): · Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats derived from vegetable oils such as olive, canola, corn, peanuts, and avocados · Omega-3 fatty acids mostly found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts