Fat Is NOT The Enemy! Good Fats vs Bad Fat

"Fats make us fat."

"Saturated fat leads to clogged arteries"

"Low fat products are better for you."

"All fats are bad"

Okay ladies and gentlemen, its time we address the above false statements because too many of us have thought them at one point or another (including myself!). Fat has the WORST reputation and is often very misunderstood. It's time we debunk these myths right here, right now once and for all so that we stop seeing fat as the enemy and stop thinking that all fats are bad!

Myth #1: Fats make us fat

Truth: Healthy fats do NOT make us fat. Our bodies absolutely require fat. It boosts our metabolism and we need it for cell growth, brain function, energy, vitamin transportation, and to cushion our joints. Where weight gain comes from in fact is refined sugar, high amounts of carbohydrates, and BAD FATS.

Myth #2: Saturated fats lead to clogged arteries

Truth: Man made damaged/altered fats and fatty animal meat are what are responsible for clogging arteries, causing inflammation, and contributing to heart attacks and stroke. Your body does not know how to break down these foreign forms of fat and it results in these medical issues and weight gain.

Myth #3: Low fat products are better for you.

Truth: This myth actually drives me insane. Companies know that consumers fear fat. So what do they do? They make low fat products by removing fat; BUT, to compensate they add in high amounts of artificial sugar and other chemicals to make sure it still tastes good. It is THIS that is causing health problems and obesity.

In a study looking at the past two generations of North Americans living the low-fat lifestyle, it shows that morality rates from coronary heart disease, cancer, and diabetes have actually been rising.

Summary:

-All fats are not bad!! 

-Don't fear the fats. Just choose healthy ones!

-Low fat does not mean high nutrition 

-Eat in moderation, but remember to include them daily in your diet for increased energy and weight loss

-when eating meat, choose organic, naturally raised and grass fed meat

-Man made fats are highly processed and never healthy!!! (fats on the right in the chart below)

TIPS:

BEST FATS TO COOK WITH:

COCONUT OIL

GHEE (healthier version of butter!!)
EGG YOLK

FATS FOR COLD USES:

OLIVE OIL

NUT OILS

FLAXSEED OIL

AVOCADO

NUTS AND SEEDS

**the composition of olive oil is damaged when used in high heats (ex. frying foods, sautéing vegetables). So ideally, coconut oil is better to cook with because it can withstand high heat (it is what I use!)

What is your favorite healthy fat to include in your diet? Mine is definitely avocado!