Healthy Fats: Their Role in Nutrition and Chronic Disease Prevention

Healthy fats are essential components of the human diet, contributing significantly to cellular function, hormone production, brain health, and chronic disease prevention. Unlike trans fats and excessive saturated fats, healthy fats—such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids—have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and support metabolic function. With the increasing prevalence of non-communicable chronic disease risk. diseases, understanding the role and benefits of healthy fats is critical for both individuals and public health practitioners. This article explores the classifications of dietary fats, the physiological importance of healthy fats, food sources, and guidelines for integrating them into balanced diets. Emphasis is placed on the evidence supporting the protective effects of healthy fats in reducing