Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Resource.

Monounsaturated fats are beneficial for the lipid panel as they help improve overall cholesterol levels. Specifically, they can raise high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), which is often referred to as "good" cholesterol, while also having a neutral or positive effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), commonly known as "bad" cholesterol.

Incorporating sources of monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts, can lead to better heart health outcomes by improving lipid profiles and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. This type of fat helps to maintain or elevate HDL-C levels rather than lowering them, which is a key aspect of its role in a healthy diet.

In contrast, saturated fats and trans fats are associated with negative effects on the lipid panel, often contributing to increased levels of LDL-C and potentially lowering HDL-C, thereby increasing cardiovascular risk. Polyunsaturated fats can also improve lipid profiles but their effect on HDL-C levels can vary, making monounsaturated fats a more reliable choice for maintaining or improving HDL-C levels.