What type of fatty acids should be prioritized for heart health?

Prioritizing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids is essential for heart health due to their beneficial effects on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular function. These types of fatty acids are found in foods such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Monounsaturated fats, specifically, can help reduce levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, ultimately lowering the risk of heart disease.

Polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseeds, have been shown to reduce inflammation and can help prevent arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. In contrast, saturated fatty acids, while not inherently bad, should generally be consumed in moderation as high intake levels have been associated with increased cholesterol levels and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Trans fatty acids and hydrogenated fats are detrimental to heart health. Trans fats, often found in processed and fried foods, are known to increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, making them particularly harmful. Hydrogenated fats, which