Harvard School of Public Health refers to unsaturated fats as "good fats" that reduce the risk of disease. Found in nuts, seeds and vegetable oils, unsaturated fats are a healthier choice than saturated fats that increase the risk of disease. Proteins are organic compounds made up of chains of amino acids. The body needs proteins to function properly and sustain life. Including unsaturated fats and protein in a balanced diet has several benefits.
Heart Disease Protection
Unsaturated fats have a protective effect against heart disease and damage to the cardiovascular system. MayoClinic.com says that one type of unsaturated fat, omega-3 fatty acids, decreases the risk for heart disease and may provide protection against abnormal heartbeats and hypertension. Walnuts, mackerel, flax oil and salmon contain protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Cholesterol Management
The body uses cholesterol to produce hormones, synthesize vitamin D and form bile salts, but too much LDL cholesterol increases the risk for cardiovascular disease and artery blockages. LDL refers to low-density lipoprotein, the type of cholesterol known as "bad cholesterol." Saturated fats and trans fats increase the level of LDL cholesterol in the body. Unsaturated fats do not increase LDL levels and may even decrease the amount of LDL in the blood, according to the American Heart Association. The AHA recommends limiting the consumption of saturated fats and consuming unsaturated fats from nuts, fish and vegetable oils to better manage your cholesterol level.
Strong Hair and Nails
The hair and nails consist of a type of protein known as keratin. Keratin provides support for the hair and nails and acts as a barrier to damage. Clackamas Community College says that normal hair growth requires the body to produce 36 amino acids every second. Consuming high-protein foods provides the energy needed to produce these building blocks of protein and keep hair and nails strong.
Healthy Skin
Both unsaturated fats and protein have beneficial effects on the skin. Unsaturated fat helps maintain the moisture and texture of the skin. Since skin contains keratin, keeping the skin healthy requires the regular consumption of quality protein sources. Olive oil, canola oil and avocados contain unsaturated fats that help keep skin healthy.
Hormone Production
Medline Plus defines hormones as chemicals that carry messages throughout the body. Hormones affect sexual function, mood, human development and how the body metabolizes food. These substances consist of amino acids, the same building blocks that make up proteins. According to Kids Health, the body needs nine essential amino acids to carry out its functions. Eating foods that contain protein provides the essential amino acids needed to produce hormones and other substances.
Reduced Inflammation
Some unsaturated fats reduce inflammation, but it is important to distinguish these fats from those that promote inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids produce substances that relieve inflammation, which may prove useful in easing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions. In contrast, omega-6 fatty acids produce substances that promote inflammation, according to Health Services at Columbia. Sources of omega-6 fatty acids include sunflower oil, corn oil, safflower oil and cottonseed oil.
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