Monounsaturated Fats

Many responses from you saying that you wanted more info on fats. Here is a quick and dirty introduction. Today's lesson is on monounsaturated fats. Read more about Olive Oil in general. Enjoy!

Dave

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What is mono-unsaturated fat?

Monounsaturated fat is considered to be probably the healthiest type of general fat. It has none of the adverse effects associated with saturated fats, trans-fats or omega-6 polyunsaturated vegetable oils.
Monounsaturated oils for cooking

Oils high in monounsaturates are better oils for cooking. Olive oil is the best as it has the highest oxidation threshold: i.e. it remains stable at higher temperatures and does not easily become hydrogenated or saturated.

Sources of monounsaturated fat

Olive oil (73 per cent) hazelnuts (50 per cent) almonds (35 per cent) Brazil nuts (26 per cent) cashews (28 per cent) avocado (12 per cent) sesame seeds (20 per cent) pumpkin seeds (16 per cent).

Health benefits of monounsaturated fat

The high consumption of olive oil in Mediterranean countries is considered to be one of the reasons why these countries have lower levels of heart disease.

Monounsaturated fat is believed to lower cholesterol and may assist in reducing heart disease. Like polyunsaturated fat it provides essential fatty acids for healthy skin and the development of body cells.

Monounsaturated fat is also believed to offer protection against certain cancers, like breast cancer and colon cancer.

Monounsaturated fats are typically high in Vitamin E, the anti-oxidant vitamin which is usually in short supply in many Western diets.

Cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, if not over-heated, provides a range of phyto-chemicals and phenols which help to boost immunity and maintain good health.

Monounsaturated fat and weight loss

From a calorie viewpoint, however, there is no difference between monounsaturated, polyunsaturated fat and saturated fat. ALL fats are high in calories.