Fat Check 101 - Getting clear about fat.
Just do a Google search about fat and the myths and hype will have you avoiding fats in any form. The truth is, fat is a necessary part of any health eating plan.
Most, if not all, adults over the age of forty have been on a low fat or fat free diet at some time of their life. Despite this, as a nation, chronic health conditions have increased, starting at an earlier age than previously though.
- Dietary fats provide your body with energy and support cell growth.
- They protect your organs and help keep your body warm.
- Fats play a major role in the absorption of some nutrients.
- They produce important hormones.
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Not all fats are created equal.
There are four major dietary fats in the foods we eat:
- Saturated fats
- Trans fats
- Monounsaturated fats
- Polyunsaturated fats
Saturated and trans fats, the “bad” fats, tend to be more solid at room temperature (like a stick of butter). The mono-unsaturated and poly-unsaturated fats tend to be more liquid (like liquid vegetable oil).
- Each of these fats have different chemical and physical structures and properties.
Use a combination of Fats
Most of your favorite recipes can be modified by combining or substituting different types of healthy fats such as nut oils and seed oils. They have a lower saturated fat content and are packed with essential fatty acids that boost your health in many ways.
So, go ahead and let your creative juices flow and experiment with various substitutions or combinations. Who knows, you may discover a culinary genius hiding inside of you.
Reduce and Enjoy
Unheated fat, oil can be a trap. Remember that once you heat the fat or oil. It will expand, so you won’t need as much as recommended. Try heating your pan and using I teaspoon of fat for every tablespoon. Heat the oil slowly so that it expands without burning.
Let’s face it. Most people are not going to completely eliminate fried and processed foods. However, if you make a few minor hacks on a regular basis, you are more likely to maintain a healthy body over the span of your life time.