The Skinny Kid

August 24, 2006

Disease Proof: Saturated Fat vs. Polyunsaturated Fat

Filed under: Weight Loss — Trent @ 10:04 am

Disease Proof: Saturated Fat vs. Polyunsaturated Fat

According to the Associated Press a recent study examined the differing effects of consuming polyunsaturated fat and saturated fat. Even though both aren’t exactly health promoting, polyunsaturated fat does appear to be less harmful on the body.
If you had to choose between the two Dr. Fuhrman would probably advise passing on both. What kind of fats does he recommend? One favorite is DHA:DHA is a long-chain Omega-3 fat that is made by the body, but it can also be found in fish, such as salmon and sardines. DHA is used in the production of anti-inflammatory mediators that inhibit abnormal immune function and prevents excessive blood clotting. DHA is not considered an essential, because the body can manufacture sufficient amounts if adequate short-chain omega-3 fats are consumed (flax, walnuts, soybeans, leafy green vegetables). However, because of genetic differences in the enzyme activity and because of excess omega-6 fats, many people who do not consume fish regularly are deficient in this important fat.