Final answer:
A diet rich in saturated and trans fats can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases by raising LDL cholesterol, lowering HDL cholesterol, and promoting plaque formation in arteries. Reducing intake of these fats and focusing on unsaturated fats, like omega-3s in fish, can lower the risk of heart disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
A diet rich in saturated and trans fats is harmful for women, as well as for the general population. These types of fats have been found to contribute to a plethora of health issues, particularly cardiovascular disease. In the 1990s, research began to reveal that trans fats are significantly detrimental to health — even more so than saturated fats. Trans fats not only increase LDL ("bad") cholesterol, but they also lower HDL ("good") cholesterol and promote inflammatory processes in the body. Consuming even low levels of trans fats (1 to 3 percent of total energy intake) was associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease.
On the other hand, a diet high in saturated fatty acids promotes the accrual of cholesterol in the arteries, leading to plaque formation (atherosclerosis) and heart disease. Saturated fatty acids are commonly found in animal products such as meat, dairy, and certain oils. Processes like the artificial hydrogenation of unsaturated fats to create trans fats further contribute to the negative health effects, as seen with certain margarines and processed foods.
To mitigate these risks, it is advised to limit saturated and trans fat intake and to opt instead for unsaturated fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish like salmon. These healthier fats contain beneficial double carbon bonds and have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Adjusting one's diet to include more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and to reduce processed foods, can lead to a healthier overall lifestyle.