Too often we think that we need to not eat ANY fats in order to maintain a proper body weight. The problem with this statement is that it lumps good fats in with bad fats. Just what is the difference between good fats and bad fats? I will explain that to you now.
Good fats are those that are non-saturated. They are usually found in a liquid form at room temperature and come from vegetables. Vegetable oils such as: canola oil, peanut oil and olive oil are forms of polyunsaturated fats. Vegetable oils such as safflower oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, flaxseed oil and canola oil are examples of monounsaturated fats.
Your body benefits in three ways by consuming non-saturated good fats. First of all, good fats transport fat-soluble vitamins A, D, K and E throughout your body. Secondly, good fats cushion and protect your internal organs. Third, good fats store energy.
Have you ever heard of Essential Fatty Acids? Essential fatty acids are found in good fats. These acids are needed by your body to build cells and make hormones. Unfortunately, they can NOT be made by your body. Therefore, you need to make sure that they are in the good fats that you are consuming.
You probably did not know that fish is a great source of these healthy fats, especially: salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna. Your body will use these essential fatty acids for structural, hormonal and electrical functions rather than energy. They will increase your metabolic rate and fat burn-off, which will help you lose weight. Essential fatty acids also benefit your heart, preventing heart disease and stroke and help your immune system stay stronger, so that you are not sick so often. Make sure that you include a source of these essential fatty acids in your diet as they are the best source of good fats!
Now, on to the bad fat. Saturated fat, which is known as hydrogenated fats or trans-fats, are typically found in animal products such as animal meats, chicken skin, lard, butter, hard margarine, cheese and whole milk. Additionally, they are also found in ANYTHING that uses these products in their ingredients, such as cakes, biscuits, pies and pastries. Saturated fats are generally found in a solid state at room temperature. Trans-fats are formed when vegetable oils are processed into margarine and shortening and can be found naturally in some animal products such as dairy products. They are not good for your health. They have been known to clog your arteries and cause heart disease and stroke. These fats should be consumed in very limited doses, monitoring your serving size and caloric intake.
As you can see, your body DOES need fat to survive. Make sure to provide your body with healthy choices of good fat sources to ensure a long life. Choosing bad fats will limit what you are able to do and how long you live.
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