Findings from a new study show that saturated fat in foods such as butter does not boost the risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, or an earlier death. However, unhealthy trans-fats in processed foods such as margarine, microwave popcorn, French fries, cookies, and ice cream clearly increase the risk of death by 34 percent.
The research, which was conducted by Canada's McMaster University, examined 50 studies that included over one million people. It found no solid evidence that saturated fat was unhealthy.
The study linked trans-fat to a higher risk of heart disease mortality and heart disease. Rates increased by 28 percent and 21 percent, respectively, according to Zee News.
Trans unsaturated fats or "trans fats" provide no health benefits. Often found in premade foods such as crackers, donuts, frozen dinners, and frosting, they greatly increase the risk of heart disease.
The effects of saturated fat are hazy, yet the researchers did not promote a higher limit on people's intake of saturated fats. There is not proof that it would benefit one's health.
Saturated fats usually originate from animal products, including cows' milk, butter, egg yolks, salmon, and meat. Plant-based products including coconut and palm oil, and chocolate also contain them.
Food companies usually use plant oils to produce trans fat products. They include margarine, packaged baked goods, and snack foods.
Current guidelines recommend that saturated fats make up less than 10 percent, and trans fat below one percent of a person's daily dietary requirements. That could reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
The labeling of saturated fats as bad for health started in the 1950s, based on a study that linked saturated fat to heart disease, according to The Telegraph. The study's conclusions were based on data from just six out of 22 countries in the study.
However, the new study was more scientific. It also found no correlation between consuming more saturated fat and risk of death such as from type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart disease.
Many health experts recommend increasing one's intake of foods high in healthy fats. Some examples are olive oil, avocados, nuts, eggs, and fatty fish.