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What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a form of fat that is necessary for the body. However, if levels of a certain cholesterol (called LDL cholesterol) are too high in your blood, this can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. There are some foods high in cholesterol (such as eggs and seafood), but the biggest factor in increasing blood levels of cholesterol is actually consuming saturated or trans fats.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

Is eating fat unhealthy?

Some dietary fats, including saturated and trans fats, can increase your risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease. Others, such a polyunsaturated fats, can offer health benefits. Eating fat can be part of a healthy diet, but fats are high in energy, …

What are triglycerides?

Triglycerides are a type of fat. Some triglycerides, such as saturated fats, can increase the risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, while others, like polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), can offer health benefits. Sometimes doctors may recommend …

What are polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs)?

Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) are a type of dietary fats. There are two main forms of PUFAs - omega-3 and omega-6. PUFAs can be found in fish, some oils, and a range of nuts and seeds. Although PUFAs offer some health benefits, they are high in energy, …

What are saturated fats?

Saturated fats are a form of dietary fat that can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease if you consume too much. They are found in processed meats, full-fat dairy products and many baked and fried products. It's recommended that you limit the amount of …

What are trans fats?

Trans fats are a form of polyunsaturated fat that have been chemically altered. They have been shown to significantly increase the risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease. They can be found in butter, some margarines and some processed foods. It is …

What are monounsaturated fats (MUFAs)?

Monounsaturated fats (MUFAs) are a type of dietary fats. They are healthier options than saturated fats. MUFAs can be found in avocados, olive oil and a range of nuts and seeds. Although MUFAs can be a healthier option than some fats, they are high in …

What are phytosterols?

Phytosterols are a form of fats that are similar to cholesterol, but come from plants instead of animals. Consuming foods with added phytosterols (such as margarines) may be recommended for some people to help them reduce their levels of blood cholesterol.

Is it healthy to eat nuts?

Nuts can be high in many nutrients, fiber and healthier forms of fats. Eating small amounts of nuts regularly is recommended as a part of a healthy, balanced diet. Some nuts can cause allergies that may be life-threatening in some people.

Should I consume full fat or low fat dairy?

Australian dietary guidelines recommend low-fat dairy products for people over two years of age. Choosing low-fat dairy products helps to limit your consumption of saturated fats and keep your energy intake in balance with your body's …

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About this article

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 14 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 402 (Click smiley face below left to rate)
Category: Dietary fats