Food for Thought Over Saturated Fat

Evidence shows that on average UK residents eat 20 per cent more than the recommended maximum amount of saturated fat, which can lead to a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries supplying the heart, thus increasing the risk of heart disease.

Now people are being encouraged to reduce their saturated fat intake by making easy changes to the way they shop, cook and eat, such as eating chicken without its skin, grating cheese instead of slicing it and using sunflower or olive oil instead of butter when cooking.

Tracy Balko, Ribble Valley Borough Council's health and fitness officer, said: "We are committed to encouraging residents to eat a balanced diet, by raising awareness of foods that are healthier.

"There are many simple steps people can take to reduce the amount of saturated fat they eat and the great news is that there are no foods they need to avoid completely.

"They just need to be aware which foods contain the most saturated fat, salt and sugar, and eat those less frequently, or in smaller amounts."

Free booklets with handy tips on how to eat less saturated fat, recipe cards and postcards are available from the main reception at the Ribble Valley Borough Council Offices in Church Walk, Clitheroe, and Longridge Library from Monday, January 25.

Pic cap: Food for thought - Ribble Valley Borough council's health and fitness officer Tracy Balko

Ends.

Ref: PR310.

Date: January 19 2010.