difference between mono and polyunsaturated fat

Fat

	Question submitted on 03/06/11 on RDCentral.com by Dani25 to RD has Responded: Hello, Which type of fat is better, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated? And, can you explain the difference. I hear these terms a lot when it comes to Cholesterol, but I'm not really sure the what they mean exactly. Thank You

Thanks for your question.  Both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated are heart healthy and can help in reducing blood cholesterol levels.  In general, they are liquid at room temperature, although some polyunsaturated fats (such as omega-3-fatty acids) are found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna. Sources of monounsaturated fats include canola, olive and peanut oil.  Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, etc) are also good sources of monounsaturated fats.  Most foods have a mix of different fats, so these foods also contain some saturated, natural trans fat as well as polyunsaturated fat. Polyunsaturated fats include corn oil, sunflower, safflower, soybean and other vegetable oils.  These fats help lower cholesterol, but may also lower HDL ("healthy" cholesterol).  It is best to obtain a balance of both types of fat in your diet.  Polyunsaturated fats are more prevalent in our diet as they are found in many processed foods (crackers, cookies, etc). Cholesterol is only found in animal foods as it is made in the liver.  Foods high in saturated and trans fat (butter, beef, bacon, margarine, fast food, desserts, full fat dairy products, etc), raise blood cholesterol and should be limited if you're trying to lower your cholesterol level.  Weight loss and a diet high in soluble fiber (oats, beans, barley, fruits, vegetables) also lower blood cholesterol. I hope this clears the confusion!