The Skinny on Fats (Oils)

Since I am on the topic of healthy fats, it's a given to now discuss Oils.

It's always a challenge to pick what we think is the healthiest oil, but a heart healthy oil (olive oil), may not be the best choice (try frying an egg in olive oil).

We also know that a higher consumption of saturated fats, mostly found in animal foods, can increase LDL (bad) cholesterol. However, saturated oils like palm and coconut, also raise cholesterol, but in this case, HDL, which is the good cholesterol.

The oils we normally use for cooking contains polysaturated or monosaturated fat - these are good substitutes for saturated fats. In fact, monosaturated fats not only help raise HDL, but is a good source of fat for diabetics since it helps the body control glucose.

In terms of nutrition, the healthiest oils are the ones rich in monosaturated fat, phytochemicals, and alpha linolenic acid. Some of these include, extra virgin olive oil, canola, peanut, flaxeed, almond, and walnut oil.

More interesting facts on oils here