How often have you heard the one healthy eating mantra that fat is bad for us!! Various dieticians, fitness centers and gyms constantly advice us to trim it off, grill it away and cut it out!!
One of the biggest misconceptions is that fat makes you fat. This simply is not true.
Sure, gorging on that tub of ice cream while watching your favorite re-runs is a big no-no if you’re trying to shift weight. Also, lugging around excess pounds can cause fat to build up around your vital organs—leading to chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
But don’t paint all fat with the same brush. The true picture is that certain fats are actually good for us. They are very healthy and essential for the body to function at its optimal level.
Instead of obsessing over low-fat and fat-free products thinking they are healthier, experts claim we need to be eating the right type of fats. But what are the right types of fat? We at Medguru recommend five incredible dietary fats that are nutrient rich and great for your waistline too!!
Nibble on Nuts
Nuts such as cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, flaxseed or peanuts rich in good fats like omega-6 fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids are being touted as a top heart healthy snack. Besides, healthy fats, these nutrient-packed powerhouses are loaded with powerful antioxidants and also full of essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to remember nuts are high in calories, hence should only be eaten in small amounts. Experts advise munching a handful of nuts with breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Avocados
Avocados are one of the most nutritious fruits you can select for a healthy diet. Though, often shunned by weight watchers because of the high fat content, avocado is an excellent source of monounsaturated fat, the type of fat that reduces bad cholesterol.
Plus, the fruit contains glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps flush out toxins and fight free radicals. Avocados are rich in folate, which is known to slash the incidence of heart disease and stroke. They are also the best source of vitamins, mineral content, protein, dietary fiber and phytonutrients that helps maintain overall health.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil!! My goodness! Stay away from that stuff!” Coconut oil, once considered the devil himself in liquid form, with artery-clogging, cholesterol-raising, heart-attack-causing saturated fat has recently become the darling of the natural-foods world.
Turns out coconut oil promotes excellent health like few other foods can. Apart from offering antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-cancer properties, it improves digestion, nutrient absorption and intestinal health. It helps manage Type 2 Diabetes, promotes kidney and liver health. The versatile oil supports the immune system, benefits metabolism, energy, and weight management. The list goes on and on…
Eggs
People believe that egg whites are healthy because they contain less fat. Another misconception!! The whole egg is one of the most complete sources of proteins available. No doubt, egg yolk contains fat but it’s packed with nutrients like choline and vitamin B that helps regulate the brain, nervous and cardiovascular systems. Eggs are high in cholesterol, so intake should not be over the top.
Now that you have a low-down on which “fattening” foods you should you be eating, just incorporate them in your diet for an optimally healthy state!!
