FATS, FATS, AND FATS! That’s all it’s about these days. Trying to lose weight and trying to get the so called ‘beach body’? Everyone thinks that eliminating fats from your diet will make you lose weight. Well unfortunately it’s not that simple. Our body requires all types of fat both the ‘good’ and the ‘bad’ kinds of fat. Some fats are better than others, and knowing the difference can help you determine which fats to avoid or eat in limited quantity and which ones to indulge in.
Too much of anything is never good!Therefore, keeping track of what fats benefit you and what fats aren’t as beneficial in the long term is not a bad idea.
Now we get to the question - What are Good fats and what are bad fats?
There are many types of fats – Saturated fats, Unsaturated fats, Polyunsaturated fats and Trans-fat. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated are ‘good fats’ whereas saturated and artificial trans fat are known as ‘bad fats’ Unlike the name suggests, both good and bad fats are necessary for the body.
Now where do we find bad fats?
Butter, beef and pork fat are just some of the common foods. Eating too much saturated fat can increase blood cholesterol levels and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.
Good fats, on the other hand, are obtained from eating avocados, peanut butter and vegetable or almond oil. These foods contain monounsaturated fats which can improve your blood cholesterol level and decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease. Salmon, plant-based food and oils contain polyunsaturated fat categorizing them as 'good fats'.
Overconsumption is unhealthy and so it is better to combine all types of fats and properties of a balanced diet into your daily meals. Although, it is never harmful to snack a little and have your cheat days where you consume slightly too much sugar or fats.. So, enjoy your meals and keep track of your activity!
TIPS FOR ADDING HEALTHY FATS TO YOUR DIET:
- Limit your intake of Saturated fats. Replace some red meat with beans, nuts and fish.
- Cook with Olive oil if possible.
- Read labels and make healthier choices.
- Dress your own salads as commercial salad dressings are often packed with unhealthy fats, added sugars and preservative.
- Cook and eat more fresh homemade food.
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