Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Dietary fat is the fat that comes from food. The body breaks down dietary fats into parts called fatty acids that can enter the bloodstream. The body also can make fatty acids from the carbohydrates in food. The body uses fatty acids to make the fats that it needs. Fats are important for how your body uses many vitamins.
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fatty acid. They may lower inflammation in the body. Inflammation in the body can hurt blood vessels. Blood vessel damage may lead to heart disease and stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids may: Keep the heart healthy by slightly lowering blood pressure. Lower levels of fats called triglycerides in the blood.
Fish oil is a dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. Your body needs omega-3 fatty acids for many functions, from muscle activity to cell growth. Omega-3 fatty acids are derived from food. They can't be manufactured in the body. Fish oil contains two omega-3s called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
A healthy diet is the body's main source of omega-6 fatty acids. Fatty acids have different effects on the body. Some are believed to cause swelling and irritation, called inflammation. But others seem to fight swelling and irritation, called anti-inflammatory. Studies have not shown an increased risk of heart disease linked to omega-6 fatty ...
Omega-3 fatty acids. Many nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are healthy fatty acids. They may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Fiber. All nuts contain fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. Fiber also makes you feel full, so you eat less. Plant sterols. Some nuts contain plant sterols, a substance that can help lower ...
Trans fat is considered the worst type of fat to eat. Unlike other dietary fats, trans fats — also called trans-fatty acids — raise "bad" cholesterol and also lowers "good" cholesterol. A diet laden with trans fats increases the risk of heart disease, the leading killer of adults.
Omega-3 fatty acids. The feeding requirements for organic farm animals (livestock) usually cause higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These include feeding cattle grass and alfalfa. Omega-3 fatty acids — a kind of fat — are more heart healthy than other fats. These higher omega-3 fatty acids are found in organic meats, dairy and eggs ...
Margarine often tops butter when it comes to heart health. Margarine is a blend of oils that are mostly unsaturated fat.
Omega-3 fatty acids don't affect LDL cholesterol levels but may help lower triglycerides and increase HDL, the good cholesterol. But because of those acids' other heart benefits, the American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish a week. Baking or grilling the fish avoids adding unhealthy fats.
Flaxseed's health benefits come from the fact that it's high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as phytochemicals called lignans. One tablespoon (7 grams) of ground flaxseed contains 2 grams of polyunsaturated fatty acids (includes the omega 3s), 2 grams of dietary fiber and 37 calories.