The lowdown on the high risks of saturated fats
Almost 64% of Americans are at risk for cardiovascular disease -- and many more are headed in that direction. Overall, around 35% of folks are living with one risk factor, such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, Type 2 diabetes, inactivity, overweight or obesity, poor nutrition, and excessive alcohol intake. And another 29% have two or more risk factors.
Saturated fats are a major contributor to their risk for heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular-related death. But if that's you, one change to your eating habits can dramatically reduce the danger you face from potentially lethal heart woes.
According to a review of 17 randomized trials published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, slashing your intake of saturated fats from red meat and red processed meats, dairy and highly processed foods, slashes your risk for all-cause mortality, heart-disease-related death, and stroke. And replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats such as omega-3s and 6s, found in nuts (walnuts and almonds), seeds (flax, chia, sunflower, pumpkin), salmon, and oils like sunflower and flaxseed oil significantly reduces the chance you'll have a nonfatal heart attack.
If you cut out saturated fats by going vegetarian/vegan, look out for dairy, sugar and sugar substitutes, and palm and coconut oils, and make sure you're getting enough calcium, iron, and B vitamins. Adding omega-3-rich salmon (there's just under 1 gram of sat-fat per ounce) to your new menu will also boost your heart health.
For help making the transition to eating healthy fats, explore the AI wellness coaching plan at 4YOUngevity.com and my "What to Eat When Cookbook."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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