‘Fat’ is a term that is generally misunderstood by most. Contrary to popular belief, weight loss is possible by consuming a diet low in calories and not fats. We require fats to carry out bodily functions and support mechanisms.
As an essential part of our diet, it is not something to be afraid of. So, here are ’10 Reasons why Fat isn’t the Enemy:
- Keeps you hale and ‘hearty’
Addition of fats to the diet reduces lipoprotein levels, a substance closely linked with the risk of heart diseases. Good fat actually reduces the risk of heart related diseases.
- Enables growth and development
Dietary fats, that cannot be produced by the body, are essential for growth, development and cell functions. These fats also form steroid hormones needed to regulate many bodily processes.
- Is a power house
Our body uses the fat we eat and the fats we make from other nutrients in our body, to provide energy for most of our life functions.
- The Omega 3’s
Omega 3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA and ALA) are not only needed to carry out bodily functions, but also deliver some great health benefits. They are known to fight depression, asthma, ADHD symptoms and also aid in the development of babies.
- Keeps the weighing scale on point
Fat takes longer to digest and thus, makes you feel full for longer durations of time and keeps your hunger in check. This cuts down on needless eating that ultimately leads to weight gain.
Including healthy fats in meals and snacks can keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day.
- Strengthens bones, liver and lungs
saturated fat is required for calcium to effectively incorporated in the bone and protects the liver from effects of alcohol and medication. A layer of lung surfactant, comprising of fats, in the airspaces of the lung aids in breathing.
- Improves brain health and immunity
The brain is made of fats and cholesterols. A diet that skimps on healthy saturated fats robs the brain of the raw material it needs to function properly.
Saturated fats like butter and coconut oil contain anti-microbial and anti-fungal fatty acids which help fight infections and make the immune system stronger.
- Absorbs Vitamins
Some essential vitamins, like Vitamin A, E, and K, are fat soluble and cannot be absorbed by the body in the absence of fat.
- Keeps you warm
Fat keeps our body warm and creates our own, personal system of insulation that protects us from the dropping mercury.
- A shinier mane, glowing skin and bright eyes
All our body cells need some fat as an essential part of the cell-membrane, to regulate what goes in and comes out of them. A deficiency of fatty acids leads to dry skin, hair and eyes.
Due to the dearth of knowledge that surrounds this subject, people have been deprived of the health benefits that fats offer. Nutritionists all over the world, are now encouraging people to go in for diets rich in healthy fats to accomplish various fitness goals.