Know Your Fats and OilsGood Fats vs Bad FatsThis is a BIG subject and there is much misunderstanding about fats and oils. Let us walk you through fats and oils and we'll try not to slip up, especially on saturated fats. There are a lot of different kinds of fats. There are good fats, bad fats, processed fats, hydrogenated fats, essential fatty acids, animal fats, plant fats, saturated fats, unsaturated, polyunsaturated and fats that are monounsaturated. Confused yet? You should be because it IS confusing. Let us clear up all of this right here, right now. Ready? A very brief history first. 
U.S. Weight TrendsIn the 1970's the United States began a low-fat or fat-free craze in which most people were lead to believe that a person’s health would be improved by drastically reducing their consumption of fats and oils. With the introduction of the low-fat/fat-free diet a corresponding increase in obesity across all ages began. (See the U.S. Weight Trends chart.) We now realize it is of utmost importance to make wiser choices regarding the kinds of fat you’re consuming, not eliminating them from your diet!The Good, The Fat and the UglyFats are organic compounds that are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are a source of energy in foods. Fats belong to a group of substances called lipids, and come in liquid or solid form. All fats are a combination of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.Fat is one of the three nutrients (along with protein and carbohydrates ) that supply calories to the body. Fat provides nine calories per gram, more than twice the number provided by carbohydrates or protein. Fat is essential for the proper functioning of the body. Fats provide essential fatty acids, which are not made by the body and must be obtained from food. The essential fatty acids are linoleic and linolenic acid. They are important for controlling inflammation, blood clotting, and brain development. Fat serves as the storage substance for the body's extra calories. It fills the fat cells (adipose tissue) that help insulate the body. Fats are also an important energy source. When the body has used up the calories from carbohydrates, which occurs after the first 20 minutes of exercise, it begins to depend on the calories from fat. Healthy skin and hair are maintained by fat. Fat helps the body absorb and move the vitamins A, D, E, and K through the bloodstream. A Fat is a Fat is a Fat – Wrong!Knowing the different types of fats can make a huge difference in meal planning, your overall health and weight management. Learn about the different Types of Fats by clicking here.Get a FREE 6 - Part Mini Course at GOING FAT2Lean FREE MINI COURSE |
