The Skinny on Fats

Everyone hears the word fat and wants to scream!   Fats are very important to our body and we can’t live without them.  There are so many types of fat that are good and bad for us.  So here, I am going to break it down to simple terms for easy understanding.

Fat is critical for our body to function.  Fats provide fuel, help keep our skin soft, and aid in digestion of foods.

What is healthy fat?

Fats that are good for our body are natural occurring fats such as unsaturated and saturated fats.  Unsaturated fats keep the lining of arteries smooth which is beneficial for the heart.  It also helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol).  These natural occurring fats also help with insulin and blood sugar regulation.  These natural occurring fats also help lower blood pressure.  Unsaturated fats help with brain development and energy,  help cushion organs, assist in regulating hormones,  and promote healthy tissue and skin.  Saturated fats help stabilize cell membranes, have antimicrobial properties (anti-viral and anti-bacterial, and have anti-inflammatory properties that help your body heal.

Eating the right type of fats and eliminating trans-fats from our diets, promotes a healthy and balanced lifestyle.  Our bodies know how to utilize unsaturated and saturated fats since they are naturally occurring.  Trans-fats are manufactured by a process called hydrogenation. In Hydrogenation, the manufacturers take unsaturated fat and add hydrogen molecules.  This process was created to extend the shelf life of foods. Trans-fats are extremely harmful to the body and should be avoided.  It increases low birth weights, blood sugar, and LDL.  It also reduces nutrition density levels, visual acuity, and HDL (good cholestrol).

What types of fat should I eat?

Here is a great list of fatty foods that are good for your body and are nutritious.  There foods will make you feel good, full, and happy!

  • olives
  • nuts
  • nut butter spread (all natural)
  • sunflower seeds
  • chia seeds
  • flax seeds
  • pumpkin seeds
  • avocados
  • butter
  • coconut oil
  • olive oil
  • cheese
  • milk
  • full fat yogurt (no sugar or sweetener)
  • oily fish such as salmon
  • eggs

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