The nutritional role of fats in a healthy diet has often been misunderstood, leading to some unfortunate myths linking them to weight gain. Fats are in fact one of the three key macronutrient groups along with carbohydrates and proteins. These macronutrients are all a part of a balanced diet that is needed for growth, metabolism, and the proper functioning of your body. However, not all fats are good for your health. Saturated fatty acids (SFAs) can have negative health effects, especially if taken in high quantities. On the other hand, good fats are essential and keep you and your heart healthy.
So which fatty acid is good for health? This is where MUFAs and PUFAs come in. But what is MUFA and PUFA?
- MUFA full form: Monounsaturated Fatty Acids
- PUFA full form: Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
- Increase in HDL cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol that removes other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream
- Reducing LDL cholesterol, which is the bad cholesterol that can get stuck in your blood vessels and making them narrow, increasing your chances of a stroke or heart attack
- Can help reduce risk of coronary heart diseases
- Improving insulin sensitivity, which helps your body manage blood sugar and metabolism better
- Can help to reduce the risk of diabetes