4 reasons why fat won’t make you fat

“Fat will make you fat!” This is something we have had drilled into our heads from a young age, from ‘‘low fat alternatives’ for every food under the sun, to the media demonizing fat as something to be feared. But in fact, FAT WON'T MAKE YOU FAT.

Here are four reasons why we need fat in our diets:

1. Fat helps you absorb nutrients

How? You need a little fat to absorb the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K), beta-carotene (a carotenoid that makes vitamin A) and other carotenoids found in leafy greens and salad veggies. Dress your salad with some healthy fats like walnuts or avocado.

2. Fat helps you balance blood sugar

Your blood sugar level impacts insulin levels, which can affect your mood, cravings and food choices. Additionally, eating sugary foods with too many refined carbohydrates and not enough fat (and protein) can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and subsequently crash (causing cravings for bad sugars and foods) Including healthy fats with your meals and snacks can help keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day.

3. Fats at a healthy level in the body are essential  

For a healthy immune system, energy levels, body warmth, protection of essential organs, fat is essential. Fat also contains the building blocks for healthy hormonal function as well as giving us healthy skin and hair.

4. Fat is essential to brain health

Brain tissue is made up of nearly 60% fat. A diet with no fat actually robs your brain of the materials it needs to function properly. Essential fatty acids and omega 3’s that are found in foods like salmon, avocados and nuts are key to brain health. If you have a meeting or a long day ahead add some nuts to your porridge in the morning or salad at lunch.

Our daily fats are essential to our macro nutrient programme as most of you will know who have followed our programme.

Don't cut out fats, eat your fats in line with your daily goals, keep exercising specific to achieving your goals and the results will come.