Myths & Facts: Good Fats and Bad Fats

Fats are actually a fuel source to our bodies, so we can start by making it clear that we need them. They take part in several body processes that are key to a healthy way of living, among them: Vitamin absorption, protecting body organs, fighting against disease, and even hair & skin—Yes, and this has to do with wrinkles! That being said, let’s move on to some good useful facts.

Facts:

Fats is an important source of energy to our bodies.
Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats are good for your health.
You should always check the nutrition label (choose non-hydrogenated).
Overeating either Good or Bad fats can lead to being overweight.
Saturated fats should only be 10% of your daily diet.
Industrial trans-fat and saturated fats are bad for your health.
You should avoid industrial Trans-Fat.

Good Fats

Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats.

You can find these on vegetable oils (olive, canola, sunflower), fish (Salmon, sardines, tuna), nuts (almonds, peanuts), avocado, among others.

These natural sources of fat can help prevent heart diseases, lower blood cholesterol levels, balance your metabolism, and improve the health of your sight, skin & hair.

“Bad” Fats

Industrial Trans fats and Saturated fats

The so-called Bad fats are indeed types of fat that are not the best thing for our bodies (These come from processes that make them unhealthy). In this case, gaining weight due to eating bad fats is the least of your worries! Nevertheless, we know that certain deserts and other types of foods might contain trans-fat and saturated fats that can be so tasty! So, our advice: Be conscientious of your diet.

You can find industrial trans-fats and saturated fats in microwave popcorn, butter, beef or pork fat, sausages, fried foods, margarine (stick and tub), vegetable shortening, baked goods (cookies, cakes, pastries), processed snack foods.