BREAKING DOWN THE FAT MYTHS

CHOLESTEROL = BAD

Some is. There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) is the ‘bad’ type that hardens the arteries, but high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) will return excess LDL to the liver for processing. Saturated and trans fats boost LDL and lower HDL, while healthier fats do the opposite. But beware of claims that so-called superfoods can lower your LDL. The best way to do that is simply to avoid eating too much saturated fat.

OLIVE OIL = GOOD HEALTH

True. Many studies have shown that ‘Mediterranean’ diets, high in olive oil, can benefit people’s health and longevity, probably because olive oil contains a high proportion of monounsaturated fats, which are very good at lowering LDL cholesterol. But olive oil contains lots of calories – so while it’s the healthiest oil to use, don’t go too mad on the dressing.

FAT = HIGH CHOLESTEROL

Not always. Saturated fats, found in meats, cheeses and butter, boost cholesterol in your bloodstream, increasing your chance of stroke and heart disease. So-called trans fats are even worse: these highly processed fats raise cholesterol, make the blood more likely to clot, and cause inflammation. But unsaturated fats from oils, vegetables, fish and nuts actually help reduce cholesterol levels.

HIGH BMI = POOR HEALTH

It’s complex. Body mass index, or BMI, is a quick but crude way to assess if a person is overweight, based on their height/weight ratio. But it doesn’t really tell you how much excess fat you have: people with lots of muscle, or large, dense bones can have high BMIs and be perfectly healthy. Only a fullbody X-ray can provide detailed information on fat levels, both under the skin and around the organs.