Saturated fat – finally the truth!

There are three main kinds of saturated fats:

1. Short chain saturated fats (eg butter) – which is healthy, butter actually breaks down to butyric acid in the body and this is colon protective. (The soluble fibre in an apple also breaks down in to butyric acid, which is also why apples are colon protective).
2. Medium chain saturated fats (eg coconut oil) – this is also healthy.

3. Long chain saturated fats ARE damaging to the body.

The main foods that cause heart disease are refined sugars including grains. These foods, especially if combined with a low fat diet will break down into long chain saturated fatty acids in the body, this is what will clog up your arteries and cause atherosclerosis.

In summary

1. Butter is good (unsalted block butter), stay away from soft mixed butters and margarine.
2. Coconut and coconut oil is good.
3. Grains and other refined carbohydrate foods create long chain saturated fats, this is the kind that causes heart disease so these foods should be avoided!

For more information or personalised advice on a healthy diet contact Fiona or Rachel on (02) 47 222 111 or www.informedhealth.com.au

Learn more about cholesterol

References:

Eddey Stephen. Cardiovascular Disease: The best treatment options, 2011. Health Schools Australia, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.

Many references and studies are available at : http://www.dietdoctor.com/science

http://www.sott.net/articles/show/242516-Heart-Surgeon-Speaks-Out-On-What-Really-Causes-Heart-Disease

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/saturated-fat-healthy/#axzz24cabyjEN