From a chemical standpoint, polyunsaturated fats are simply fats that have more than one double-bonded (unsaturated) carbon in the molecule.  Polyunsaturated fats are typically liquid at room temperature and when chilled.

From a chemical standpoint, polyunsaturated fats are simply fats that have more than one double-bonded (unsaturated) carbon in the molecule.  Polyunsaturated fats are typically liquid at room temperature and when chilled.

Polyunsaturated fats can have a beneficial effect on your health when consumed in moderation and when used to replace saturated fats or trans fats.  Polyunsaturated fats can help reduce the cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your risk of heart disease.
 

They also include essential fats that your body needs but can’t produce itself – such as omega-6 and omega-3.  You must get essential fats through food.

Omega-6 and omega-3 play a crucial role in brain function and in the normal growth and development of your body.

Yes.  Polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats can benefit your health, when eaten in moderation.  The bad fats – saturated fats and trans fats – can negatively affect your health.

Polyunsaturated fats – like all fats – contain nine calories per gram.  All fats are equally high in calories.

The fats in the foods you eat should total between 25 and 35 percent of the calories you eat that day and, for good health, the majority of those fats should be monounsaturated and polyunsaturated.  Eat foods with monounsaturated fats and/or polyunsaturated fats instead of foods with high levels of saturated fat or trans fat.  For practical tips, check out the Nutrition Center.