5 Reasons Why Fat is Your Friend

We live in a climate where the term “fat” itself has been vilified. The trend toward “low fat” or “no fat” foods during the 1980's seemed like a coup for those that were conscious about their diets, but it turned out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing, as these “low fat” versions actually ended up having higher calorie counts, more sugar, and chemicals that weren't exactly consumer friendly.

What we know about fat seems to change every week, but there are some definitely advantages to fats of every kind. Here are five reasons to love having it in your diet. Or why fat is your friend.

5. Get Your Vitamins

Fat assists with the absorption of a class of vitamins called “fat soluble,” which include Vitamins A, K, D, and E. Vitamin D is important because it is tied into calcium absorption, which is why milk has it added in. If you aren't getting enough fat in your diet, then these vitamins don't have a place to call home, and your body could be missing out on some natural protections, including defense from free radicals courtesy of Vitamin E.

4. It's In the Best Foods for You

Fish, eggs, nuts, and different red meats are all high in different types of fat, and all of them have positive effects when your fat levels are balanced out. There are saturated fats, and unsaturated fats; both can be good. The fat to avoid are transfats, as you may have heard. Saturated fats tend to fall into the Omega-6 category, which improves cellular strength, while Omega-3s are necessary for pliability. When in balance, the fats in your diet lead to a healthier system overall.

3. Your Body Needs it to Store Energy

If you're trying to lose weight, then this one isn't as much of a benefit for you, but if you're a body builder and you need to pack on the pounds, you need fat more than anyone. Not only do you need fat to build mass, but a lack of fat in your diet could actually strip away the protective and insulating fat your organs need to stay healthy. No more than 20-30% of your daily calories should come from fat, but it's still a necessary item.

2. It Helps Your Brain

The cellular sheathes that surround the nerve fibers in the body are called myelin, and when they're in great shape, your brain fires at faster speeds. Fat also keeps your hormones balanced when it's consumed in healthy and safe amounts, including your sexual hormones and the hormones that regulate your sleeping cycles.

1. It Tastes Good

Cutting fat out of your diet entirely makes for food that generally tastes worse, which gives you a higher chance of rebounding or crashing. Keep it sane, but keep it. Your taste buds will thank you.