Yes, we know, we’ve all heard it over and over… AVOID FAT…but what a lot of us don’t realize is that fat is a vital part of staying healthy with a balanced diet, it’s just the right kind of fat that’s important.
Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fat and protein. The protein in avocados are more easily digested as they contain fiber, which also aids in keeping you full longer.
• Oleic acid is the primary fatty acid in avocadoes and is shown to improve cardiovascular health.
• They boost HDL (good cholesterol) levels which protect against damage from free radicals and help in preventing diabetes.
• Phytosterols, one of the major fats in an avocado, aids in the reduction of inflammation, helping those with arthritis.
Coconut Oil seems to be the oil of the moment, but in fact, it’s been around for hundreds of years. It is produced from the ‘meat’ of the coconut, and has a neutral flavour when used for food preparation.
• Coconut oil’s triglycerides (fatty acids) are shorter, and are metabolized differently, having positive effects on the brain, aiding in disorders such as Alzheimer’s or epilepsy.
• The ketones produced by the liver after digestion of coconut oil increase the expenditure of energy, as well as reduce appetite, aiding in weight loss.
• Lauric acid counts for almost 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil, which can help to fight off an infection in your body.
Chia Seeds are from a plant in the mint family, and is native to Mexico and Guatemala. They come in a variety of colours…white, black or dark brown…and come either whole or milled to use in many different preparations.
• The tiny seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, almost 5 grams in a 1 ounce serving, which aids in brain health.
• Chia seeds help fight belly fat by stabilizing blood sugar levels.
• Loaded with 27% of your daily required amount of phosphorus, these seeds help to keep your bones and teeth healthy, as well as aiding with tissue repair.
Olive oil is a staple that everyone has in their panty, and over the years has been proven to be one of the healthier oils you should use in your daily diet.
• The main type of fat found in olive oil is monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help to lower your cholesterol as well as regulate blood sugar levels.
• Olive oil is packed with polyphenols, an antioxidant that helps in protecting your cells from damage, as well as aiding in the reduction of inflammation in the body.
• Consuming olive oil as a part of your balanced diet has been proven to help in preventing depression.
Hemp Oil is one of the newer oils to hit fame, but its health properties are proven. It is extracted from the hemp plant. Cold pressed oil has a nutty flavour, but when refined it becomes much milder in taste.
• Hemp seed oil contains the lowest amount of unsaturated fats of all the plant oils, which makes it a heart healthy fat.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 are perfectly balanced in this oil, making it a great source of essential fatty acids.
• Hemp oil is made up of 25% protein, and compared to other oils, it provides amino acids and the protein needed by your body without the addition of unwanted calories.
So remember, not all fats are created equal. Add some ‘healthy’ fat to your diet and you’ll reap the benefits.
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