The Skinny On Saturated Fat

Written by Chicagohealers.com practitioner Dr

Written by Chicagohealers.com practitioner Dr. Kristina Sargent-

For years now the American Heart Association, the American Diabetic Association and dietitians across the US have told us that eating saturated fat is bad for us and raises our cholesterol, promotes heart disease and stroke as well as contributing to obesity and stroke. However, there is plenty of evidence to the contrary:

1. The chronic diseases of this century only appeared after we substituted processed vegetable oils, primarily omega-6, for the lard and butter used by our ancestors for centuries. Although the overall percent of saturated fat has risen from 52 grams in 1909-1913 to 58 grams in 1985; the rise in vegetable oil consumption has tripled from 7 grams in 1913 to 25 grams in 1985. According to the experts above, heart disease should have decreased, but the mortality rate from heart disease and related conditions is at an all time high.

2. Several studies have shown that there is insignificant evidence linking polyunsaturated and saturated fat with heart disease. But there is strong evidence that omega-3 oils, from fish, are linked to decreased heart disease.

3. There are 3 main types of saturated fatty acids that humans consume stearic acid palmitic acid and lauric acid. Stearic acid has no effect on total cholesterol and may raise HDL the good cholesterol. Palmitic and lauric acid are found in palm oil which has neutral effects on cholesterol it doesnt raise or lower cholesterol levels. These fats are found stored around the heart and are used as sources of energy during stressful times.

4. Saturated fats are absolutely necessary for healthy function of hormone levels and cell membranes.

5. Saturated fats are necessary for calcium to be incorporated into bones, and for omega-3s to be used by the body properly.

6. Saturated fats enhance the immune system.

7. Human milk contains saturated fat and cholesterol which are necessary for growth and development of babies. Failure to thrive in babies has been linked to low fat diets.

8. Many cultures including the French, Chinese, Japanese, Puerto Ricans, many African tribes and the Eskimos have diets that are high in saturated fats, but do not exhibit the same heart and chronic disease patterns as Americans.

So, am I recommending an all-lard diet NO! But being overly concerned about saturated fat is also not the best health recommendation. Moderation needs to win. Research indicates that a Mediterranean diet rich in lean, grass fed meats, dairy and fish, along with plenty of fruits and vegetables is the smartest diet to consume. And we all want to make smart choices. Conspicuously missing from the Mediterranean diet are large bowls of pasta and bread- that is American not Mediterranean. Also missing are the bags and boxes of nutrient-deficiency-producing, so-called food that line the shelves of American grocery stores but that is a topic for another article.

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