Final answer:
Unsaturated fats found in fish and vegetable oils both lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol and elevate 'good' HDL cholesterol, promoting healthy blood lipid levels, unlike saturated and trans fats which have the opposite effect.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two foods that have a similar effect on blood lipids are unsaturated fats found in fish and vegetable oils. These foods are beneficial as they both lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or 'bad' cholesterol) and increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or 'good' cholesterol), thus promoting healthy cholesterol levels. Conversely, foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as red meats, full-fat dairy products, and processed treats like cakes and cookies, raise LDL cholesterol and can decrease HDL cholesterol levels, negatively impacting overall blood lipid profiles.
For maintaining cardiovascular health, it is recommended to limit intake of saturated and trans fats and instead focus on unsaturated fats from fish like salmon, tuna, and herring, as well as from plant-based sources such as nuts and vegetable oils like olive and canola oil. These dietary choices can contribute to lower cholesterol levels and reduced risk of atherosclerosis, which is the narrowing of arteries leading to heart disease.