The issue of fat is ongoing. I grew up during the lets blame FAT for everything era. Poor FAT was vilified. The mantra of the day was low-fat, no fat, fat is bad. In the process we replaced fat with fake fat, additives like sugar and high fructose corn syrup to make things taste satisfying. And now we have a diabetes in children and chronic autoimmune diseases are off the charts. We got it wrong and we certainly didn’t need to add SUGAR to every single processed food.
Here’s the deal. Fat is an important macronutrient just like Carbohydrates and Protein and your body needs FAT. What you need is a RIGHT fat diet not a low fat diet. You shouldn’t be focusing on choosing between low-fat and high-fat foods, instead you should be considering “right” fats – foods that contain healthy fats.
Healthy fats include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while unhealthy, bad fats include saturated fats from fatty, processed meats and trans fat. Trans fat has no place in a healthy diet. If you take only one thing away from this quick read, please cut all trans fats from your diet immediately. I am pretty much begging you. Polyunsaturated fats are found in foods like fish (i.e., wild caught salmon), tofu, sunflower seeds and walnuts and these fats actually have some pretty awesome benefits. Heres why you should NOT be skipping the FAT.
- builds smarter brains, 60% of your brain is made up of FAT
- provides energy
- necessary to absorb vitamins and minerals from your food
- actually supports a healthy heart
- protects internal organs
- makes us feel full and satiated, makes food taste good
The best fats are omega-3 fats, they are the main structural components of brain-cell membranes and the insulation coating of the nerves throughout your entire nervous system. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats also help keep your veins free of cholesterol buildup. That’s right!! Good Fat actually decreases bad LDL Cholesterol and increases the good HDL Cholesterol.
The richest sources of omega-3s, that your body can readily use (EPA/DHA), are cold-water fish such as wild salmon, trout and tuna. Flax, pumpkin seeds and walnuts are also excellent sources of omega-3s (ALA).
Choosing a “right” fat diet is the direction you should go. Forget about the low-fat vs. high-fat diet debate – become fat savvy for yourself and your family.
Tip to help you emember: The healthiest fats swim in the SEA and Flourish on Land, assuming they graze on grass. Healthy fats flow and are liquid at room temperature.
Want to learn more? Consider Taking a L.E.A.N. Start Workshop. Ask me how? Gerryl@FriscoFitcity.com
