Why Do I Need Fat?

Fats are an essential macronutrient in the human diet. Good fats are important in many critical body structures and processes. For example, saturated fatty acids make up a large percentage of cell membranes, which provide necessary cell structure and integrity. When eating good sources of fat, valuable fat soluble vitamins, such as A, D, and K are consumed. Fatty acids are important in the function of the immune system, with some fatty acid types specifically decreasing inflammation. Good fat benefits also include promotion of wound healing, improved brain function, and production of many hormones, among other roles. Not having adequate good fat in the diet will lessen the balance of the above benefits, as well as contribute to blood sugar and hormonal imbalances. Fat soluble vitamin deficiencies are another possibility when not enough dietary fat is consumed.

Much of the fear and research that points to the negative side of fats is really speaking of artificially produced trans fats or hydrogenated oils or mass produced vegetable oils such as canola, soy, and corn. Eating rancid polyunsaturated fats or trans fats can raise bad and total cholesterol, and decrease good cholesterol. Along with this, triglycerides are raised which can contribute to an increase in cardiovascular disease. In addition, trans fats can alter cell membranes, and increase blood insulin levels in people who eat them. These bad fats can decrease the amount of available testosterone in males and interfere with sperm function. Eating too many rancid polyunsaturated fats can wreak havic as well. They alter the delicate Omega 3/6 balance in the body, which can increase inflammation, among other problems.

Eating a balanced diet of 30 percent fat, 30 percent protein and 40 percent carbs, as long as the fat sources include quality saturated, mono, and polyunsaturated fats will help the body restore homeostasis more easily.

What are good fats? Include grass fed butter, coconut oil, cold-pressed oils such as hemp, sesame, and extra-virgin olive oil, raw nuts, wild-caught fish, flax seed, in a balanced, whole foods diet for best results.