Fat For Fuel

Fat for fuel. I wanted to touch base on this topic because it is one I know many of us question.  How can fat in our diets actually act as an important aid in a healthier lifestyle. Specifically, when it comes to those who desire to "lose" fat. 

To help you understand better, let me just touch on a few benefits of eating healthy fats on a regular. First, they help produce cell growth. Our metabolism is made of chemical transformations found within our cells. Therefore, healthy cells equal a healthy metabolism. Healthy metabolism promotes better foods absorption and pulls nutrients from our food.  A healthy metabolism has a better shot at breaking down that unwanted fat and building that strong base of muscle. 

Second, fat is a very reliable source of energy. Fat is broken down into fatty acids. Where they travel through the blood stream and are eaten by hungry cells. However, we do need to balance how much fat we eat because when our body doesn't use this energy right away, we do store it in our fat cells as triglycerides. However, almost half our energy comes from the use of fat. That is a large demand to meet each day. 

Fats also help develop a healthy brain. It has the ability to improve our function. Without it, we will feel tired, foggy and unfocused. It helps with hormone productions, particular our sex hormones. Finally, it helps our skin look better and protects our organs. 

As I discuss often, if we deprive ourselves of certain macronutrients we are removing an important resource for our bodies functionality. We are stripping the body away from it's natural ability to create and transport other essential micronutrients, like vitamins and minerals. If the body isn't fully equipped the body will store fat in order to maintain homeostasis.  Therefore, if you have ever cut out fat or avoid it and notice no gains. This is the bodies way of adjusting to the deprivation. Our body is smart. Our food holds information and resources. It is like trying to run a car without gas. 

So how do you know if you need more fat in your diet?

1.  Are you hungry all the time?  Fat can help satiate your appetite. Making you feel full longer.
2. Dry skin. Fat has the ability to really improve the state of our complexion.
3. Do you struggle with extreme mental fatigue?
4. Have you or do you lose your Menstrual Cycle?

These are all signs that there could be an imbalances with your fat consumption. I love fat, it is probably my favourite Macronutrient. It is an essential in my nutrition. Especially, with diagnosed Adrenal Fatigue. There are many ways to get healthy fats in your diet. You can try, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, avocados, nuts and seeds. If you are struggling with ways to get more fats in your diet, do not hesitate to connect. Comment below and let's get you feeling the power of using fat for fuel.