Which statement best describes how saturated fats, trans fats, and unsaturated fats influence LDL cholesterol?

• A. Saturated fats lower LDL cholesterol.
• B. Trans fats lower LDL cholesterol.
• C. Saturated and trans fats raise LDL cholesterol; unsaturated fats (mono- and polyunsaturated) can lower LDL and support heart health.
• D. All fats raise LDL cholesterol.

Answer: (C)

Dietary fats influence LDL cholesterol in different ways. LDL carries cholesterol in the blood and high levels increase the risk of plaque buildup in arteries. Saturated fats tend to raise LDL by increasing liver cholesterol production and reducing LDL receptor activity, which keeps more LDL circulating. Trans fats also raise LDL and often lower HDL, worsening the lipid profile. Unsaturated fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, tend to lower LDL when they replace saturated fats in the diet and support heart health (polyunsaturated fats can also help lower triglycerides). So the statement that saturated and trans fats raise LDL while unsaturated fats can lower LDL best captures these relationships.