What effect does polyunsaturated fat have on HDL and LDL levels?

Polyunsaturated fats have a distinct effect on blood lipid profiles, particularly in relation to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Research indicates that when polyunsaturated fats are incorporated into the diet, they can lead to reductions in LDL cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" due to its association with an increased risk of heart disease.

Additionally, polyunsaturated fats may have a neutral or slightly lowering effect on HDL cholesterol, which is considered "good cholesterol" as it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. The overall impact of polyunsaturated fats is generally beneficial for heart health, particularly given their ability to lower LDL levels.

This is why the choice indicating that polyunsaturated fats lower both HDL and LDL levels aligns with current understanding about their role in lipid metabolism. They encourage a healthier lipid profile, which can lead to a lower risk of cardiovascular issues.