Facts About Fat

For many decades, fat became the enemy, and our favorite foods started popping up in the grocery aisle with a “fat-free” version. Little did we know, these fat-free foods are actually worse for us, as they contain higher amounts of fillers like sugar, salt and preservatives to enhance the flavor. What we know now is that fat isn’t as bad as we thought it was. It is actually unsafe to put infants or toddlers on a low-fat diet, as this stage of life requires a sufficient intake of fatty acids for proper growth and development. Once in our teenage and adult years, we still require fat in the diet. Our overall intake should be moderate in total fat, and low in saturated and trans fat.
Saturated fats are found in products such as fatty cuts of meat, sausage, cream, butter, and processed foods. Trans fats are made from vegetable oils that are pumped with hydrogen to create a stiff product, such as margarine. Both of these fats act similarly in the body, and can cause plaque buildup in our arteries, leading to possible heart problems down the road. The healthiest types of fats to eat are poly- and mono-unsaturated fats, and contain omega-3 fatty acids.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, omega-3 fats may help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health (2016). Try to include fatty fish such as salmon, trout, and tuna in your diet a few times a week for a healthy dose of omega-3 oil. Other great sources are flaxseed, walnuts, and chia seeds. If you are looking for a healthy meal delivery plan that focuses on healthy fats, DeliverLean will not disappoint! Our meals are calorically balanced, and prepared with healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil, avocado, salmon, tuna, and almonds, to name a few. Whether you are looking for weight loss or to enhance your nutrition, it is always important to include healthy fats in the diet.