What are monounsaturated fats ?
Chemically speaking, monounsaturated fats are fats that have one double-bonded carbon in the molecule. They are liquid at room temperature and begin to turn solid when chilled. Olive oil is an example of a monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated Fats Can Lower Your Risks of Stroke, Heart Disease and Cancer When eaten in moderation, and used to replace saturated and trans fatty acids in your diet, monounsaturated fats can have a beneficial effect on your health. They can help decrease the levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol in your blood, while increasing levels of “good” HDL cholesterol. They can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, while providing nutrients, such as vitamin E, that your body needs. Monounsaturated fats can also decrease your risk for breast cancer, help you lose weight and relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis. Monounsaturated Fats Help Your Body Absorb Nutrients Some amount of fat is essential to a healthy diet because fats help your body absorb nutrients, especi