Eating Well As You Get Older
Frequently Asked Questions
16. Which kinds of fat should I limit?
Limit the amount of saturated fats and trans fats you consume. Both can put you at greater risk for heart disease.
Saturated fats are found in red meat, milk products including butter, and palm and coconut oils. Common sources of saturated fat in meals include regular cheese, pizza, grain-based desserts like cookies, cakes, and donuts, and dairy desserts, such as ice cream. Consume less than 10 percent of calories from saturated fats.
Processed trans fats are found in stick margarine and vegetable shortening. Trans fats are often used in store-bought baked goods like pastries, crackers, and candy. They are also often used in fried foods at some fast-food restaurants.
Keep intake of trans fats as low as possible. Read the Nutrition Facts label to choose products that contain “0” trans fats.
