How to Limit Saturated Fat Intake

Concerns about saturated fat aren't just for those that suffer from high cholesterol, as healthy eating can prevent a number of health problems. Knowing how to cut saturated fat from your diet is an important weapon against obesity, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Instructions

• 1

  Recognize that saturated fats come mainly from animal products, including processed meat, butter, dairy and eggs. Red meats and fatty cuts of meat are much higher in saturated fat, so by simply sticking to lean meats, poultry and fish you can greatly reduce fat intake.

• 2

  Stick with low fat dairy products, including yogurt, cheese and milk. However, when choosing your dairy products, read the labels carefully, as many have added sugars, chemical sweeteners and colors as well as other harmful additives. Play it safe and choose organic dairy, or cut the fat completely and go with organic, non-GMO soy or rice milk products.

• 3

  Enjoy your eggs without the yoke, a quick way to cut your saturated fats without cutting your eggs. Egg whites can be used instead of whole eggs in most recipes, including baking.

• 4

  Read product labels carefully, as many snack foods and package items contain saturated fats to preserve freshness and keep packaged goods crispy.

• 5

  Limit the use of tropical oils, such as coconut and palm oil, as they are some of the few plant oils which contain saturated fats. Remember, read labels well, as coconut and palm oil are common additions to packaged foods.

• 6

  Switch from traditional butter to spreads made from non-trans-fat vegetable oils. While most soft margarines are low in saturated fat, they tend to be high in chemical additives. Make sure to look for all natural brands that have "Expeller Pressed" on the label.