### Managing Fat Intake for People with Diabetes For people with diabetes, it's crucial to monitor not just carbohydrates but also fats. While fat doesn't directly raise blood glucose levels, it plays a significant role in overall health. Here's a simple guide to managing fat intake: #### Types of Fats 1. **Unsaturated Fats (Good Fats):** Found in plant oils, fish oils, and some nuts. These fats help maintain good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL). 2. **Saturated Fats (Bad Fats):** Found in animal products and some plant-based foods. These can raise LDL cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. 3. **Trans Fats:** Mostly found in processed foods. These fats are harmful as they raise LDL and lower HDL cholesterol. The FDA has banned partially hydrogenated oils, a common source of trans fats. #### Daily Fat Intake - **Total Fat:** Should be 20% to 35% of your daily calories. - **Saturated Fat:** Should be less than 10% of your daily calories. For example, if you consume 2,000 calories a day, aim for 45 to 78 grams of total fat, with no more than 22 grams coming from saturated fats. #### Reading Nutrition Labels Nutrition labels on packaged foods provide information on total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat per serving. Use these labels to make healthier choices. #### Why Fat is Important Fat helps the body absorb essential vitamins (A, D, E, K), supports cell function, and provides energy. However, it's important to choose the right types of fats to maintain heart health. By understanding and managing your fat intake, you can better control your diabetes and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.