Fat. Fat Fat Fat Fat Fat. There I said it. As an eating disorder counsellor this is a word I hear all the time. I hear it used descriptively, fearfully, negatively, critically, curiously…the list could go on. I don’t, however, ever hear it praised or celebrated. Fat in our society has become labeled as this horrible thing. People limit their intake and believe that consuming fat will undoubtedly make them that very thing: Fat. I am here to discuss fat in hopes of having you understand that it isn’t nearly as bad as you think it is and that having it become a part of your diet could be one of the best decisions you make for your body
Now before I get started I want to clarify that not all fats are created equal. I am not here saying that sitting down and eating chips, french fries, fried chicken, or really fried anything is good for you. The types of fat that I am referring to are healthy fats, things like avocados, coconut, olive oil (and other oils), nuts, and seeds.
So how does fat help us?
- It provides our body with the energy it needs to function properly
- It helps us stay full longer which prevents us from getting hungry soon after we have eaten
- Certain vitamins (A,S, E, K) and antioxidants can only be absorbed into our body through fat supplied in our diets
- Fat is needed in our body to have our hormones and immune system functioning properly
- Helps protect our organs, tissues, bones and nerves.
- Helps control our body temperature.
While I know for many the idea of consuming fats can be really anxiety provoking there are a lot of health benefits to having healthy fats in your diet. Find a place where you can start and add from there. Some of my favorite fats that I consume on a regular basis are nuts and avocado. I add both to my salads or will make some homemade guacamole to have as a snack with some veggies.
What are some ways that you add healthy fats into your diet? Share them below in the comments section.
*Keep in mind I am recommending everything in moderation here. Consuming a diet that is made up mainly of fat can have some serious health consequences as well but a healthy amount is necessary to staying healthy.
