Does FAT really make you FAT?

The right answer to this question depends on what type of fat we’re talking about. Certain fats are actually essential for many important bodily functions, but the wrong kind of fat can lead us down an unhealthy path to gaining weight and a long list of diseases.

Fat to Avoid

Hydrogenated Oils

You have probably already heard in the media that hydrogenated oils are detrimental to your health so avoid them at all costs. But what exactly are they?

Hydrogenation is a chemical process used to make fat more stable. This method completely alters the liquid oil’s molecular structure so that it no longer resembles a natural fat. Because your body does not recognize the transformed molecule as a natural fat, it cannot process it and treats it as a toxin. This “toxin” has been linked to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, birth defects and obesity.

You must read labels! Hydrogenated oil and partially hydrogenated oil can be found in most packaged foods (margarine,cookies, cereal bars, sugar cereals, crackers, chips, pretzels, microwave popcorn, and low-fat and fat-free snacks). There are even many packaged foods advertised as “health foods” that include hydrogenated oils as ingredient.

Fats That You Have To Eat

Your body cannot survive without fat – specifically essential fatty acids. Your brain, hormones, immune system, and digestion are all dependant on fatty acids (that's the reason people who go on very extreme low fat diets often suffer many health problems).

Omega 3 Fats

Omega 3 Fats are essential to human health but unfortunately it cannot be produced by the body which is why it is essential that we get these great fats from food. Foods high in Omega 3 fats are leafy green vegetables, flax seeds, raw walnuts, organic eggs, salmon, sardines and grass fed beef.

Extensive research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and help prevent risk factors associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. These acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be particularly important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function. In fact, infants who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy can develop vision and nerve problems. Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include extreme tiredness (fatigue), mood swings or depression, and poor circulation, poor memory, dry skin and heart problems.

Cooking Oil

The only oil that is suitable for high heat cooking (and one of the healthiest oils you can consume) is raw, organic, unrefined coconut oil. Coconut oil has been proven to be one of the healthiest oils available for the human body and increases the body’s metabolic rate (helping in weight loss)

Oils are best RAW

Olive oil and flax seed oil are two wonderful oils to use for salad dressing or on cooked or raw veggies. These oils have a lower melting point and are more stable (and healthier) when kept raw.

Key points you need to know about fat and fat consumption:

1. Avoid products containing hydrogenated oil and partially hydrogenated oil

2. Consume foods high in Omega 3’s

3. Cook with Organic, Unrefined Coconut Oil

4. Use Olive Oil and Flaxseed oil raw for salads and veggies. Also include avocados as a healthy source of fat into your meal plans.

Remember all fats are not created equal. Proper use of the good fats can be a great way to keep you and your family at optimum health.

Watch this video on Healthy Diet