the body diets in Healthy fats

Struggling to come to grips with the notion that fat is good for you? 

Here are some of the most common myths about fats, why they play an essential role in diets and how to distinguish the good from the bad.

Fact: Healthy fats are needed for the body to function optimally 

Fat should form an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet. Good fats are needed by the body as they help us to absorb certain nutrients, regulate hormone production and help the growth and repair of tissue. The body does not make essential fatty acids by itself, so it's important to consume 'good' fats found in flaxseeds and walnuts. 

Myth: The body reacts the same way to all types of fats 

Not all dietary fats have the same effect on the body, and a great example of this is coconut oil. Coconut oil is a type of saturated fat, which is converted into pure energy by the body rather than being stored as fat. As well as providing energy, coconut oil won't cause a spike to your blood sugar levels, making it an ideal fat for diabetics. 

Fact: Trans-fats are bad fats to avoid 

'Trans-fats' are the type of fats to avoid as research has shown these are the only type of fat to cause weight gain. Whilst some meat and dairy products contain a small amount of trans-fats, the largest and most concerning source of trans-fats in a person's diet today is found in baked goods, margarine, snacks and fried food. 

Myth: Consuming lots of Omega 6 rich fats will give you great health 

Processed seed and vegetable oils used in cooking, are higher in omega 6 than omega 3. With a rise in their use, this is what has driven an unhealthy balance of these important fats. The ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 has become too high, resulting in omega 3's pro-inflammatory benefits becoming redundant; at present, the average ratio can be anywhere between 20 to 50:1 in favour of omega 6. 

Myth: Fats cause heart disease 

Saturated fat was wrongly labelled as a fat to be avoided at all costs in the 1960s, as researchers thought then that consuming it would cause heart disease. However, a 2010 study found absolutely no association between saturated fat consumption and the risk of heart disease.