What dietary component is typically recommended to maintain heart health?

Monounsaturated fats are typically recommended to maintain heart health due to their favorable effects on blood cholesterol levels and inflammation in the body. These fats can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels while increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels, which is beneficial for overall cardiovascular health. Foods rich in monounsaturated fats include olive oil, avocados, and various nuts and seeds.

In contrast, high trans fats are known to raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart disease. High sodium intake can lead to elevated blood pressure, another risk factor for cardiovascular issues. Additionally, high sugar consumption can contribute not only to weight gain but also to various metabolic problems such as insulin resistance, which can further exacerbate heart disease risk. Therefore, incorporating monounsaturated fats into the diet is a safe and effective strategy for promoting heart health.