Jefferson University Hospitals

If you perceive all fats as bad for your heart, you aren’t alone. Fewer than half of Americans realize there are two types of dietary fat that actually help their hearts, a new survey shows.

So, while many have heeded the warnings about the cardiovascular dangers of trans fats and saturated fats, the American Heart Association (AHA) now thinks people need to pay more attention to the cardiovascular benefits conferred by polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.

The AHA has launched a “Face the Fats” Internet campaign to encourage people to view these lesser-known fats with new respect. Check out the site’s interactive quiz, menus, recipes and other information.

To make an appointment with a Jefferson Heart Care physician or for more information about heart health, visit Heart Care at Jefferson.