I know what you may be thinking… reasons to eat “Fatty” foods? Let me explain. The western diet has created a misconception about the “fat” word thinking that all fats are bad and should be avoided if you want to have a lean and slim physique. The opposite is true. Our bodies need certain things to operate. Calories, vitamins, and nutrients are the ones we usually hear about. However, good fats are essential for overall health, and for keeping the unwanted fats away.
Unsaturated fats come primarily from plants foods, such as those listed below. Unsaturated fats (good fats) in your daily diet are essential to maintain weight, improve brain and major organ function and for your body to use and store essential vitamins such A, D, E, and K. Simply put, if you are not eating some of these fatty foods every day, you are robbing your body from good fats which is just as bad (maybe worse) than consuming saturated or “bad fats”.
- Avocado
There are a ton of reasons why you should be eating more avocado, and good fats are the number one. Avocados contain about 20grams of fat (depending on the size, of course), more potassium than bananas, and a good amount of fiber.
2. Olive Oil
Cooked at a high temperature, olive oil can actually become toxic for your body as it begins to break down and release chemicals. However, eaten raw and at room temperature, olive oil is a heart-healthy source of unsaturated fats. Only 1 tablespoon contains 13.5 grams of total fat. So next time you have a salad, enjoy olive oil as your dressing, or when you visit that Italian restaurant, make sure you add extra olive oil on that bread plate of yours before your meal.
3. Nuts
Almonds, cashews, walnuts, brazil nuts, macadamia, pecans… opt in for a raw nuts trail mix for a healthy snack alternative. This will help lower your blood sugar, and even add some Omega 6’s for an added bonus.
4. Fatty Fish
Primarily consumed as a good source of protein and Omega 3’s, fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in unsaturated fats. Incorporate fish into your dinner plate instead of chicken or red meat next time you sit down for a meal.
5. Seeds
Hemp, pumpkin, chia, flax and sesame are high in good fats, fiber, and anti-inflammatory vitamins. Also containing a good amount of Calcium and Omega’s. Seeds are so simple to incorporate into your diet. Simply add them to smoothies, yogurt or salads and you’re set.
Follow my blog with Bloglovin
What do you think?