5 Foods With Saturated Fat To Avoid (& 5 Unsaturated Snacks To Eat Instead)

When it comes to maintaining a healthy diet, one of the key factors to consider is the type of fat that you consume.

In this article, we will discuss five foods high in saturated fat that you should avoid, as well as five healthy and tasty unsaturated snacks to replace them with.

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Saturated vs Unsaturated Fat

Saturated and unsaturated are two types of dietary fatty acids that differ in their chemical structure and the effects they have on our health.

Saturated ones are solid at room temperature and are typically found in animal products such as meat, butter, cheese, and cream, as well as in some plant-based sources such as coconut oil and palm oil. Saturated acids are known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood, which can, in turn, increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Unsaturated acids, on the other hand, are typically liquid at room temperature and can be found in plant-based sources such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and vegetable oils. Unsaturated unhealthy acids are further divided into two categories--monounsaturated and polyunsaturated.

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Foods to Avoid

Red meat: Red meat is high in saturated fat and has been linked to numerous health problems, such as cancer and heart disease. If you can't live without meat, try switching to leaner cuts like chicken or turkey.

Cheese: While cheese is delicious, it is also high in unsaturated fats. Try switching to low-fat cheese or eliminating cheese from your diet altogether.

Butter and cheese are high in calories(Naim Benjelloun/ Pexelsh)

Butter: Butter is high in such acids and should be avoided. Try using healthy oils like olive oil instead.

Fried foods: Fried foods should be avoided whenever possible. Try baking or grilling your food instead.

Processed snacks: Processed snacks, such as potato chips and crackers, are often high. Try snacking on fruits, vegetables, and nuts instead.

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Healthy Unsaturated Snacks To Eat Instead

Avocado toast: Avocado is a great source of saturated fat, and makes for a delicious snack when paired with whole-grain bread.

Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and healthy acids. Try adding some fruit or nuts for the added flavor.

Hummus and vegetables: Hummus is a great source, and pairs well with vegetables like carrots and celery.

Trail mix: Trail mix is a great snack for when you're on the go, and is packed with healthy nuts and seeds.

Smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to consume a variety of healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy acids from sources like avocado and nut butter.

It is important to be mindful of the types of foods that you consume in your diet. (PhotoMIX Company/ Pexels)

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In conclusion, it is important to be mindful of the types of acids that you consume in your diet. By avoiding foods high in saturated and incorporating healthy unsaturated snacks into your diet, you can help promote better health and well-being.