Weight Loss Benefits of Monounsaturated Fatty Acids

As late as the 1980s, monounsaturated fatty acids, along with polyunsaturated fatty acids, were lumped together in the general category of 'fats.' The American public was led to believe that all fats were bad. And not only were all fats bad, they made you fat too.

About the only thing that monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) have in common with fats such as saturated fats and trans fats are they yield 9 calories when metabolized. Now many clinical studies have shown that monounsaturated fatty acids are beneficial for heart health.

This type of lipid strengthens the immune system and helps to lower blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. They are liquid at room temperature but becomes solid when refrigerated. Monounsaturated fatty acids have a higher melting point than polyunsaturated fatty acids, but a lower melting point than saturated fats.

Monounsaturated fats provide the foundation for the Mediterranean diet. This diet gave the explanation of what was formerly known as the French paradox. The French who lived in the region of the Mediterranean Sea were found to have lower rates of heart disease than other societies. This was despite the fact that they ate large amounts of fat.

Clinical studies have shown that MUFAs helps to get rid of excess fat--including belly fat. Eating a MUFA at every meal will help in weight loss. MUFAs include olives and olive oil, avocados, nuts and their butters, and seeds.