All cooking oils contain some level of fat; the amount and type is what should be closely considered. Animal fats are generally solid at room temperature and can be reduced to an oil when heated. It can be found in many common dietary choices, including butter, cream, cheese and, of course, in the meat of the animal itself. It was once thought that the saturated fat in these foods should be avoided entirely, but some research is indicating that these types are actually an important part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. In fact, they may be preferable to the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) found in processed and heated corn, peanut, soybean and cod liver oils.
Excessive consumption of unhealthy fats has been linked to a variety of health problems. Some of the most common include obesity, diabetes, inflammation of the prostate, cancer and heart disease caused by clogged arteries. Fortunately, there are ways to continue to enjoy your favorite foods, even the ones that are fried, with a few alterations to the way they are prepared.As often as you can, use olive or coconut oil rather than butter or margarine when you cook. These can help reduce cholesterol, aid in weight loss, decrease the risk of heart disease and actually enhance the flavor of many meats, vegetables and grains. Enrich your diet with naturally oils found in foods like eggs, avocados, nuts, some grains and flax. As always, consult your physician before making any drastic modifications to your diet.