Eating more fat? Sounds delicious.
The catch is not all fats are healthy.
The answer is to know the fats that are good for us, eat more of those and lose the fats that aren’t so fabulous.
Lily gave me 5 compelling reasons why we need to eat healthier fats and as I love most of them I don’t need much of a push.
For years, fat has been painted as the villain when it comes to our health. However, science now shows that there are a whole host of benefits by increasing our healthy fat consumption.
Healthy fats consist of oily fish, unsalted nuts and seeds, avocado and cold-pressed virgin oils.
5 Reasons For Healthy Fat
- 1. Healthy fats may prevent energy dips and can keep hunger at bay
Fat balances blood sugar by slowing the rate at which sugar from food enters the blood stream. This prevents blood sugar and energy crashes, and results in fewer cravings for sugary ‘quick fixes’.
Fat has the added bonus of keeping us fuller for longer.
- 2. Healthy fats can reduce inflammation and improve heart health
This is especially true when it comes to the omega-3 fats, founds in oily fish, flax seeds, chia seeds and walnuts. Their potent anti-inflammatory effects can work wonders for those suffering from inflammatory conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions associated with pain.
Omega 3 fats can also help reduce inflammation within blood vessels, lower tryglycerides and increase our heart protective HDL cholesterol, all of which are key indicators of a healthy heart.
- 3. Healthy fats boost metabolism and stimulate fat burning
This is because omega 3 fats can direct sugar to be stored in muscle and liver cells as glycogen, rather than being store as fat. This glycogen can then go on to be used as fuel by the body.
Healthy fats can also lower levels of our fat storage insulin, which allows fat be shed more easily.
- 4. Healthy fats boost memory, mood and concentration
Did you know that the human brain is nearly 60% fat? Healthy fats are one of the most crucial molecules that determine your brain’s integrity and ability to perform.
To improve concentration, memory and boost mood, ensure you consume at least 2-3 portions of oily fish a week.
- 5. Healthy fats can make your skin glow
Healthy fats are an integral part of cell membranes, it is the cell membrane which influences the cell’s ability to hold water.
Our skin is made up of a very large number of cells, therefore a nice healthy cell membrane leads to more supple, softer and more wrinkle free skin.
the healthy fat diet, lily soutter
Lily Soutter is a Nutritionist & Nutritional Therapist
Learn more about Lily @lilysoutternutrition.com
images, artist chloe wise
