Question

Describe various types of Fats.

Answer 1

1. Saturated fats: Solid at room temperature; mostly present in animal foods; can raise cholesterol level. Sources: desi ghee, butter, cheese, cream, red meat, full-fat dairy products, coconut and palm oils.
2. Unsaturated fats: Liquid at room temperature; mostly present in plant oils; help improve cholesterol levels.
   • Monounsaturated fats: Canola, olive and peanut oils; lower bad LDL cholesterol and maintain good HDL cholesterol.
   • Polyunsaturated fats: Sunflower, soybean and corn oils; lower bad LDL cholesterol.
3. Trans fats: Unsaturated fats changed by hydrogenation; present in processed foods, snacks and cookies; raise cholesterol, so they should be eaten as little as possible.