Are all fats created equal?

It is not surprising really that so many of us are scared of eating fats when diets treat them as the root of all evil.

But here is the thing – not all fats are the same.

In fact, there are many which are essential for the health and maintenance of your body.

So fats can be good for you?

Yes, when you have them in moderation.

Essential fats found in fish, nuts, seeds, plant oils and avocados are particularly good for your health as they help to: promote a healthy heart; balance your hormones, improve brain function and concentration, boost your immune system and reduce the impact of stress.

• Plant oils – sunflower, coconut, rapeseed, olive oil, grape seed, avocado, walnut, flax seed  hemp and argan oils are all healthy oil which you can cook your foods in.
  
  
• Flax-seed – rich in omega 3, flax seed also contains lignans that can help to improve your digestion.
  
  
• Nuts – may normally be associated with unhealthy fats; however the essential fats found in nuts can help to balance your hormones, nourish your brain and help you to maintain a healthy weight.
  
  
• Seeds – sunflower and pumpkin seeds are both rich in zinc which is important for your immune system.
  
  
• Avocados – research has found that avocados can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol.
  
  
• Oily fish – mackerel and sardines in particular contain large quantities of omega-3 and omega-6 oils which are important for your health and bodily function

See what we mean? Just because they contain fat, doesn't necessarily make them bad for you.

Can the fats I eat affect my body fat?

Another misconception about eating fats, is that they instantly turn to body fat (which is why you put on weight), but this isn't true.

When it comes to sourcing energy, your body prefers to use carbohydrates, which it then breaks down into glucose to fuel your body.

Now should you fail to use this energy, your body stores this excess glucose in your fat cells. However, once these are full – as if often the case – your body then begins storing them in your muscles cells which leads to the appearance of weight gain, loose skin and loss of definition.

So in other words, the fats you eat often have little to do with actual weight gain (although eating them in excess can’t help).

Faith Brought on understands the benefits of having the right knowledge when it comes to weight loss and likes to spread the word about traditional weight loss methods but also fat burners and appetite suppressants.