Saturated fats have had a bad reputation over the years. But they are actually diverse and can offer health benefits to the body.

1. Is Saturated Fat Healthy?
Dr. Alexander Rinehart, DC, MS, CCN, CNS
http://www.DrAlexRinehart.com

2. Saturated Fats
 Are saturated fats “bad” for you?
 Saturated fats are diverse
 3 Groups
 Short-chain
 Medium-chain
 Long-chain
 Each group metabolized differently by the body

3. Short-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids
 Examples: Acetic Acid (C-2), Butyric Acid (C-4),
Isovaleric Acid (C-6)
 Commonly produced from fermentation of fiber in
the colon
 Healthy benefits for immune system &
gastrointestinal tract

4. Medium-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids
 Examples: Caprylic (C-8), Capric (C-10), Lauric (C-
12), and sometimes Myristic Acid (C-14)
 Sent directly to the liver & burned like simple
carbohydrates
 May be helpful with neurodegenerative disorders
 Support weight loss, energy balance, and immune
health
 Do not negatively affect cholesterol or insulin
levels

5. Long-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids
Examples: Palmitic (C-16), Stearic (C-18)
Found in animal products
Lead to rise in Total Cholesterol, HDL and
LDL.
Raises HDL to a greater degree!
Help add stability to hormones & cell
membranes

6. Conclusion
 Saturated fats are good for you and are not
necessarily harmful unless combined with:
 1. High Sugar Diet
 2. Sedentary Lifestyle
 3. Smoking
 4. Man-made toxins in food, water and air
 5. Trans fats
 6. Insufficient Omega 3 fats (ex. Fish oil)
 7. Genetic susceptibilities

7.  To read the full discussion and references
please click the link:
http://dralexrinehart.com/nutrition-benefits/
is-saturated-fat-healthy/
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