Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What constitutes a healthy fat choice in a balanced diet?

1. Saturated fats

2. Trans fats

3. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats

4. Cholesterol

The correct answer is: Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats

The choice that identifies a healthy fat in a balanced diet is polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These types of fats are recognized for their beneficial effects on heart health and overall wellness. They can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood, which decreases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Polyunsaturated fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in fish, walnuts, and sunflower oil, are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. Monounsaturated fats, found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts, also play a role in improving cholesterol levels and providing antioxidants. Incorporating these healthy fat choices while minimizing the intake of saturated and trans fats is key to achieving a balanced diet. Saturated fats, typically found in animal products and some tropical oils, can lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. Trans fats are especially harmful and are often found in processed foods, contributing to cardiovascular diseases. Cholesterol, while necessary in small amounts for bodily functions, must be consumed wisely and is not categorized as a fat but rather as a sterol, which means it is better to focus on the type and quality of fats in the diet.