"Eating fat makes me fat" has been a mainstream myth in the nutrition world for the past two decades. However, the most recent research suggests that thinking this way is completely wrong. From my professional perspective, being afraid of any food group is not healthy and normal, and that is why I decided to write this article
On a scientific level it has been proven that the consumption of fat does not cause weight gain, on the contrary, it could actually help us lose a few pounds. That means that consuming foods like our Sarai Spreads, avocado, salmon, and olive oil should have a place in your diet. If you're afraid of these foods, it's time to let it go!
First of all, I want you to understand that the body needs fat to function properly. Fat is essential for your blood clotting and the movement of your muscles. It is a necessary nutrient for building your cell membranes (the layers that house each of your cells), as well as the protective shields around all of your nerves. Fat is also essential to allow your body to absorb vitamins and minerals from the foods you eat.
There are definitely some fats that can be healthier than others. In a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers tested what happened when people exchanged a small portion of the calories they ate from saturated fat (which is most often found in meat and dairy products ) for calories from unsaturated fats (like those found in our Sarai Spreads). The results demonstrated numerous benefits, including a reduction in the risk of conditions such as heart disease and various neurodegenerative diseases.
According to the Harvard Medical School, healthy fats include those from nuts, fish, and olive oil, which are known as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. On the other hand, the fats found in products such as butter and coconut oil are known as saturated, which are recommended to consume in a significative lesser amount. Lastly, the fats that are the least healthy are those called trans and partially hydrogenated fats, which are found in processed foods to extend the shelf life of the products.
As you can see, not all fats are the same, however, I do not recommend judging them or being afraid of them, since stress towards food is more harmful to the body than the food itself. Remember that each body is unique and responds differently to different protocols. There are people who feel very good on a high-fat diet and others on a lower-fat diet, so it is very important that you know and listen to what your body likes. This means that the perfect diet will be UNIQUE for you and your needs.
My message is the following:
1) Don't be afraid of fats.
2) Your body needs fats in order to be healthy.
3) Eat foods like salmon, avocados, olive oil, and our Sarai Spreads more often.
4) Reduce your consumption of fats like butter and lard without obsessing over it.
5) Eat processed foods with trans and hydrogenated fats sporadically without falling into extremes.
By putting these tips into practice, I am sure that you will stay healthy and your relationship with food will feel balanced, free and of benefit to you.
Stay well,
Monica Hefferan
IG: @ monica.hefferan
www.monicahefferan.com
