Polyunsaturated Fat

The intake of high amounts of fat is by nature, harmful to the health of the heart as it increases the amount of cholesterol in the body, leading to increased risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases.^[r296] Polyunsaturated fatty acids, on the other hand, reduce the amount of low-density lipoproteins, or as we may call it 'bad cholesterol (LDL)'.

Cholesterol may get deposited in the blood vessels impairing the flow of blood and leading to cardiovascular diseases. Consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids reduces cholesterol levels, helps in keeping the heart working in optimum conditions, and keeps the vessels clear and healthy.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega 3, are known to be beneficial for fetal development, and pregnant women are advised to consume more of them. The polyunsaturated fatty acids are used for the development of the fetal brain and eyes.^[r287] It has been shown that babies whose mothers consumed more polyunsaturated fats had better problem-solving skills than others. Intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids has been shown to reduce the risk of pre-term labor in women as well.

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly Docosahexaenoic acid, called DHA, has been found to show beneficial effects on brain health.^[r295] In people who consumed omega 3 fats, better resistant to age-related mental decline was seen. Omega 3 fatty acids also help prevent dementia and improve memory and overall brain function.

The polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, possess anti-inflammatory properties. These fatty acids have proven to be beneficial for joint health, particularly in people with rheumatoid arthritis.^[r294] People who consume more polyunsaturated fatty acids have better chances to treat mild to moderate osteoarthritis, as they relieve inflammation.

The intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids has been shown to be helpful as anti-aging agents.^[r288] They decrease the oxidative stress that is linked with telomere shortening, a bodily process which limits stem cell function, regeneration, and organ maintenance during ageing. The prevention of telomere shortening is known to protect cell aging in people with coronary heart disease.

Intake of omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to boost the cell responses against cancer cells. Various mechanisms have been reported to have increased the immune response against cancer cells, which include decreased production of certain substances, increased apoptosis or destruction of cancer cells, and better immune response to cancer.^[r292]