Health Tip: All Fats Aren't Bad

Health Tip: All Fats Aren't Bad

(HealthDay News) -- While it's important to limit the fat content in your diet, your body does benefit from some fats in small amounts.

The University of Michigan Health System explains:

• Monounsaturated fats, in limited amounts, are good sources of antioxidants, such as selenium and vitamin E.

• Healthier fats, in limited amounts, help the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients from other foods.

• Healthier fats, in limited amounts, can help prevent and treat heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, inflammatory health conditions and musculoskeletal pain.

• Research indicates that healthier fats can help improve blood clotting, inflammation, cholesterol and blood pressure.

• Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy growth and development of the brain, controlling inflammation and are thought to help treat and prevent a number of diseases.