Most people when they hear the word "fat" in their food get worried and try to avoid them when on diets. While it is true that too much fat can make you gain weight; you actually need fat in order for your body to function correctly. But what you do need to be careful is the kind of fat that you eat; there are "good" and "bad" fats. Saturated fats are the ones found in dairy, meats and greasy foods etc and they can raise bad cholesterol levels. Then there are unsaturated fats which actually increase the levels of good cholesterol. Within the category of unsaturated there are poly and mono.
(Yes I know, its getting confusing but I'm just explaining the basics, do some more research if really interested=)) . Good fats have many benefits that include: boosting your immune system, promote brain , nerve and heart health. They are also used for energy after the body uses up its carbohydrates. So what kind of food actually has these fats? I'll list a few below categorized in the kind that they are:
Polyunsaturated:
- nuts
- seeds
- corn oils
- fatty fish
Monounsaturated:
- nuts & seeds
- Avocado
- olive oil
- canola oil
- peanut oil
Now one of my absolute favorite fats from this list is avocado! People are afraid of avocados because they are high in calories and fat. But again this fat is good for you and everything in moderation!
All these health benefits with the added bonus of being delicious! I've posted a bunch of recipes using avocado and there are many more ways you can incorporate them into your meal. For example: use as a substitute for another unhealthy spread such as mayo. Replace those bad fats with this great healthy version.
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