Most of us grew up being taught to avoid and fear fat. We’re told it “makes you fat” and “causes health problems”. A great amount of medical research is spent on this topic and the cause of many top health issues (heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes,…). What we now know is that not all fat is created equally and fat may not be to blame. What happened during the ‘fat-free craze’ was the removal of fat from products replaced with sugar; what was created was high sugar, low nutrient foods that were anything besides healthy. So, what kinds of fats are good for us?
Fats to Avoid
There are two facts that we should limit: saturated and trans fats. Saturated fats are found mostly in fatty meats and dairy products. This kind of fat has a strong relationship with cardiovascular issues. Transfats are also to be avoided as there is a correlation to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, among other health issues. These fats are inflammatory and will NOT support your goals for optimum health or weight maintenance/loss.
Fats to Include
Good fats, as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated, actually HELP to reduce your bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and, therefore, help to lower your risk of stroke and heart disease. They also support skin and hair health and help to keep you fuller longer which promotes weight loss. These “good fats” are found in foods like salmon, nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive and coconut oil.
In human studies, it was found that those who ate high-fat diets had a FASTER metabolism. Those who consumed high carb, low-fat diets spiked their insulin levels, which slows metabolism and increases the storage of fat. Therefore, it was found that the high-fat diet group had a faster metabolism even when eating the same amount of calories; this can equal WEIGHT LOSS!
If you’re concerned or confused about incorporating quality fats (which most of us are!) or worried you consume too much bad fat, let us help! We can analyze your diet and get you back on track! We can also look at important blood markers of cholesterol, inflammation, and predictors of cardiovascular disease, that are often overlooked, to see where you stand, internally. All of these things, combined, can be a life-changer!
Nutrition & Healthy Eating, Wellness