Saturated Fats: What Are They?

Saturated fats or “wrong” fats are those that raise the cholesterol level, are generally of animal origin and are solid at room temperature.

Saturated fats include: butter; fatty meats; luncheon meats; whole milk; most cheeses made from whole milk; eggs; chocolate; lard; thick gravies; cream coconut; desserts and pastries made with animal fats such as lard or butter; shellfish; creamed foods.

Because polyunsaturated fats reduce blood-cholesterol levels, they are much preferred over saturated fats. Numerous studies have shown that replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated cuts the risk of heart disease. The same appears to be true for diabetes. Studies do not show a clear link between polyunsaturated fats and the risk of breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer, however.