Certain fats might offset heart risk from weight gain

Researchers were surprised to learn that unsaturated fats in the diet improved cholesterol levels despite the extra calories and weight gain. So if you are going to gain pounds, make sure it is with unsaturated fat.

If you’re going to overindulge and gain weight, at least try to make sure the extra calories come from unsaturated fats, a new study suggests.

When lean people pack on even a few extra pounds, heart disease risk factors in the bloodstream change – some for the better if the excess food contains unsaturated fats, versus saturated fats, researchers found.

Weight gain in the short term is probably not dangerous at all, says expert. However, if weight accumulates over time, especially abdominal fat, there can be health consequences. – Filepic