Let's chew the fat!

Let's get one thing straight,  

all fats are not created equal.  

Advertising that something is fat-free or low fat is a popular way to get people to buy processed foods. People are under the impression that fat makes you fat. The human body actually needs some fat to survive. Which kind of fat you consume is the key.

Virtually all foods contain some fat.  It is in foods because both plants and animals use fats as the most economical way to store energy.  It is needed for their growth, development and function when there is a shortage of food supply (or a shortage of sunlight in the case of plants).
We are much like other animals so we do actually need some fat from our diet to survive.  As with most things, too much fat is bad. The fat that you do consume for health needs to be from the Good Fats list.

Type 2 diabetes is on the rise in this country because we are consuming too much fatty fast foods. We all produce insulin (a hormone that escorts glucose into your cells for energy) but when the cells are insulin resistance, they resist that action and glucose builds up in your blood. Why would the cells resist this natural process? Because cells can become clogged with bad fat! 

Trans fat is made by adding hydrogen to vegetable oil through a process called hydrogenation, which makes the oil less likely to spoil. Using trans fats in the manufacturing of foods helps foods stay fresh longer, giving it a longer shelf life. You will see this listed as hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oil on processed foods. Avoid it! (I think by looking at that short list you already know that you should)

Animal products are the source of most saturated fat. I have read enough to know that a plant based diet is best for your health. I don't expect you all to become vegetarians but please limit the amount of animal products that you do consume. You can follow a plant based diet and still eat lean meats occasionally if you wish. Notice that fish is on the good fats list under polyunsaturated.

 

Polyunsaturated fats include omega-6 and omega-3 which play a crucial role in brain function and in the normal growth and development of your body. Your body needs them but isn't able to produce them. 

Monosaturated fats are fine in moderation. Just because they are 'good' doesn't mean I suggest you pig out! What I am saying is do not avoid an egg yolk, avocado or peanut butter because you are scared of the fat. It's ok in moderation!

 

Everything in food works together to create health or disease. 

If you are eating for good health for the rest of your life, 

you will never again have to count calories or worry about your weight.