Definition of Oil, tropical

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Oil, tropical: Coconut, palm kernel or palm oil. Like all fats and oils, these three oils contain various types of fatty acids but, unlike other plant oils, they contain a great deal of saturated fatty acids. Coconut oil is 92%, palm kernel oil 82% and palm oil 50% saturated fat. These oils are found in commercial cakes, cookies and "snack foods."

The American Heart Association advises people to reduce the amount of saturated fat in their diet, because it tends to raise blood cholesterol levels. The AHA recommends limiting the consumption of foods that contain tropical oils.