How Do Polyunsaturated Fats Lower Cholesterol?

The prevailing evidence suggests that the decrease in plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol induced by polyunsaturated fat is a result of modified secretion of cholesteryl ester (in the case of n-6 fatty acids) and triglyceride (in the case of n-3 fatty acids) and increased low-density lipoprotein receptor ...

Can polyunsaturated fats reduce cholesterol?

Polyunsaturated fats can help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that can cause clogged or blocked arteries (blood vessels). Having low LDL cholesterol reduces your risk for heart disease. Polyunsaturated fats include omega-3 and omega-6 fats.

How do polyunsaturated fats affect HDL and LDL levels?

“Polyunsaturated fats decrease LDL and total cholesterol 8% to 12% when compared with saturated fatty acids,” Gillingham says. Consuming EPA and DHA, the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish, can improve blood triglyceride and HDL cholesterol levels, she says.