What is the main type of fat that should be limited in a healthy diet?

The main type of fat that should be limited in a healthy diet is saturated fat. This is because a high intake of saturated fat has been linked to increased levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood, which is a known risk factor for heart disease. Foods high in saturated fat include fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, butter, and certain oils such as coconut and palm oil.

While some saturated fat is acceptable in moderation, health organizations recommend keeping it to less than 10% of total daily calories to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. This focus on limiting saturated fats aligns with dietary guidelines aimed at promoting overall health and reducing chronic disease risks.

In contrast, unsaturated fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fats), are considered beneficial in moderation as they can help to improve cholesterol levels and have positive effects on heart health. Trans fats, another type of fat, are also recommended to be avoided altogether due to their negative health effects.