Why Eating Fat is Not Always an Unhealthy Choice

In a world that seems to be dictated by body image, so many people run away at the thought of fat. There are so many different kinds of bad fat, but the truth is that there is good fat too. Obesity is caused by a combination of different things, not just fat. Have you noticed that when people cut back from low-fat foods, they aren’t miraculously cured? This is because they cut back on healthy fats, not just unhealthy ones. It is important to know the different benefits associated with fats, and which ones you should most definitely avoid.

Your Brain Needs Fat

Your brain is composed of approximately 60 percent fat. If you cut out fats from your diet, you are essentially taking that away from your brain. Your brain requires a certain amount of fat in order to function properly. There are essential vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, and K, that are not water soluble. These require fat to help transport the vitamins throughout the body for absorption.

Your Heart Loves Fat

It is ironic that most people hate fat, but their heart actually needs it to thrive. There have been studies conducted that found zero links between saturated fats and heart disease. In fact, fat provides twice the caloric energy as carbohydrates. This means that your body will be able to sustain energy for longer periods of time, all while keeping your hunger more satisfied. Your body will not have the excess stress to convert other materials into energy, and your heart will not have to work as hard.

Proper Nerve Signaling

There are particular saturated fats that act as signaling messengers that influence your metabolism. One of these signals is to ensure the appropriate release of insulin in the body.

Fat Helps You Breathe

It is crazy to think about, but our lungs are coated with a substance that is almost entirely derived from saturated fat. Towards the end of pregnancy, babies begin to “stock up” on fat. Premature babies do not make it to this milestone, so their lungs can’t work as efficiently. They have to be given a substance called surfactant to keep their lungs functioning properly.

Your Bones Will Be Stronger

Consuming fat can help your bones become even stronger. Saturated fat is a necessity for calcium to be effectively incorporated into your bones. If you are against consuming fats, at least try to incorporate saturated fats for this specific reason.

Fat Boosts Your Immune System

If your body does not have an adequate supply of saturated fatty acids, then your immune system could become weakened. The fatty acids that are found within your white blood cells help recognize and destroy foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. It is important that you consume fat in a healthy way, and maintain the presence of fatty acids. You need to be careful not to overcook your fats, this could be a major reason that your Keto diet is not working—it strips your foods of their nutrients. Being mindful of proper cooking methods will benefit your diet and even boost your immune system.

Improved Liver Health

Fat has benefits for the majority of your organs, including your liver. Once again, saturated fat is the fat behind improving your liver health. If you frequently drink alcohol, you absolutely should consume saturated fats. This type of fat helps protect the liver from the alcohol, as well as other medications.

Fat Supports Your Largest Organ

Most people probably don’t consider their skin to be an organ, but it very much is. Fat is a major component of the cellular membrane, and our skin is made up of a whole lot of cells. If you fail to consume enough fats, this could cause your skin to become chapped and dry. Dry skin can make it easier to get cuts, which can cause infection.

It is important to make sure that you include fats in your diet, even if you are wanting to lose weight. Consuming food with fat will not inhibit your weight loss efforts. The most important fats to try and avoid are the trans-fats. These fats are not good for your body, and were simply created to help food have a longer shelf life. There are many benefits to having fat in your diet, so welcome it and make the changes to incorporate it into your meals.

If you choose your fats smart, you will not have to worry about obesity, high cholesterol, or heart disease. The majority of “good fat” can be found in vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fish. Healthy fats are typically liquid at room temperature, rather than solid. Fat is a major source of energy, and it is important that you do not rob your body of this necessity.