Fats are the most misunderstood macronutrients. Nearly demonized!
This is a big mistake stemming from abysmal ignorance.
Fats are essential for many corporal functions. Even saturated fats are indispensable because they:
– Strengthen our immune system.
– Are good for our liver and lungs.
– Help calcium absorption and so give stronger bones.
– Are important for brain functioning.
– Are good for the lungs.
Consequently the problem is not to avoid fats at all costs — except maybe for the ugly trans fats– but to make the right choices and keep their intake within some limits.
Do not forget that some fats are belauded during last years– and with good reason.
I speak of course about the monounsaturated and the omega-3 fats.
The increase of the ratio of omega-3/omega-6 fats in our diets is a gigantic step towards the control of chronic inflammation.
Some important roles that fats play in the functioning of our bodies:
– They waterproof and isolate the human body.
– They are the major constituent of the cell membranes.
– They function as energy reserves.
– They are indispensable for the absorption and use of the fat soluble vitamins A,D,E,K.
– They contribute to the production of many hormones.
– They contribute to the maintenance of many of our systems.
Without or with very low fat:
– We cannot feel satiation and we tend to overconsume other foods,mainly based on processed carbs.
– We have a decrease in the metabolic rate.
– There is a faster release of sugars in our blood,higher levels of insulin and thus a lipogenic environment.
– It is very difficult to control the strong cravings and feeling of hunger.
– There is a reduction of the production of many hormones including testosterone.
Conclusion
We say yes to fats but with the necessary knowledge and discrimination!
To your great health!
Chris Strogilis