Why is Saturated fat bad?
Saturated fats promote the formation of a group of prostaglandins known as E2, which may depress the immune system and offset the beneficial effects of omega-3s. In excess, saturated fat increases risk of cardiovascular and other diseases. Meat and dairy products range from 40%-60% saturated fat. Palm and coconut oils are high in saturated fat, as are many processed foods. Is Canola oil the better oil? Canola has less saturated fat than olive oil and it is one of the better sources of omega-3s. Canola is 6 percent saturated fat, compared to 14 percent in olive oil and 15 percent in soybean oil. It is also high in monounsaturated fats (including oleic acid, which has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol) and has a moderate level of polyunsaturated fats (such as alpha linolenic acid, which lowers triglycerides and reduces the risk of heart disease). What determines a better oil? A healthy ratio of omega-6s to omega-3s is important when choosing any oil. While both omega-3s and omega-6s a